Author(s)

Yueqi Li

Corresponding Author

Yueqi Li

Abstract

To address the need for enhanced technical precision and kinetic chain efficiency in the take-off phase of the toe loop jump among female figure skaters, this study investigated the effects of ballet-based training using a rigorous kinematic analysis framework. Twelve amateur skaters (aged 11–15 years) capable of performing a single-revolution toe loop jump were recruited and assigned to an experimental group (n = 6; ≥12 months of structured ballet training) or a control group (n = 6; minimal or no ballet exposure) based on training history. Off-ice standardized take-offs were captured using the OpenCap markerless motion capture system, and joint angle trajectories for bilateral knees, hips, and pelvic tilt were analyzed via Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM1d) to characterize intergroup differences in movement patterns. The analysis revealed that ballet-trained skaters exhibited significantly greater left knee and hip flexion and larger pelvic tilt excursions, reflecting increased lower-limb loading capacity, deeper center-of-mass lowering, and more coordinated sequencing of joint extension. These findings support the conclusion that ballet-based and floor-control training contribute to improved flexibility, postural stability, and neuromuscular coordination, providing empirical justification for integrating such methods into youth figure skating development programs in combination with accessible motion capture systems for individualized performance monitoring.

Keywords

Ballet-Based Training; Figure Skating; Toe Loop Jump; Take-off Phase; Lower Limb Kinematics; Knee Flexion; Hip Flexion; Pelvic Tilt; Markerless Motion Capture; Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM1d)