Training, Experience, and Medical History of Pairs Skaters

Abstract

In brief: Little research has been done on the injuries sustained by competitive figure skaters, and none on injuries to pairs skaters in particular. This study is an attempt to systematically address injuries to pairs skaters. Fourteen pairs skaters, nine of whom were nationally ranked, completed questionnaires about their training, experience, and medical history. The results showed that males tended to have pain in the shoulders, wrists, and back, while females had pain in the hips and feet. These differences could be related to the different demands on males and females when performing lifts and throws. The results also indicated that males had more injuries than females in singles skating, while females had more injuries in pairs skating.