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Basketball has a rather curious origin story. This indoor sport was invented in 1891 by Canadian doctor and educator James Naismith. He wanted to distract his 18 students in Springfield (Massachusetts) in the winter with a competitive sport, but with a lower risk of injury than American football, for example. The first basketball hoops were peach hoops, which the school’s caretaker attached to the 10-foot (3.05 meter) high balconies of the Springfield gymnasium. This randomly determined suspension height is still the international standard today. At that time, the teams also needed a long stick to get the balls out of the baskets again. It was not until 1906 that the now standardized open-bottom net was introduced.

To prevent spectators on the balcony from helping out when throwing a basket, a board was placed behind each basket. Together with the school secretary, the player inventor also drafted the 13 basic rules, which have remained almost unchanged to this day. The first basketball game on January 20, 1892 in Springfield ended with a score of just one hit. Nevertheless, this new sport quickly became known and popular in the USA. As early as 1893 there was women’s basketball at Smith College, with Senda Berenson Abbott changing the basic rules slightly and adapting them for women’s sports. The sport has been part of the Olympic Games since 1936 and a basketball world championship is held in a different country every four years.

Even today, basketball is primarily an indoor sport. The aim of the two opposing teams is to throw the ball into the opponent’s basket and thus score points. Basketball is very important in many nations today and is played by around 450 million people worldwide, according to estimates by the World Basketball Association FIBA. The most popular, successful, and highest-paid professional athletes are basketball athletes.

There are now variants such as streetball and beach basketball, which are played outdoors with slightly modified rules.

Content of the game

Basketball is mainly played indoors. Two teams try to get the ball into their opponent’s basket and thereby win points. Players can achieve this using various throwing techniques (dunking), but the ball must always be thrown into the basket from above. The baskets are 3.05 meters high on the two narrow sides of the rectangular playing field. A team consists of five field players and up to seven substitutes, who can change with a teammate as often as they like. Every hit in the basket in the game brings two or three points, depending on the distance, a free throw hit one point. The winner at the end of the game is the team with the higher score.

The playing field

The playing field for basketball games must be rectangular and have a hard surface. For competitions, the dimensions of the field are 28 meters by 15 meters. There are various circles, lines and zones on the field that have their own function.

The boundary lines of the field are the touchlines and the end lines or baselines. If the ball – or a player holding the ball – touches any of these lines or the area outside of these lines, he is out of bounds.

A center line divides the field into two equal halves. The center circle with a radius of 1.80 meters is drawn around the midpoint of this center line. From here, the jump ball is executed at the beginning of a game.

A rectangle is drawn under the baskets. In this so-called zone, players of the attacking team are not allowed to remain uninterrupted for longer than 3 seconds.

This zone is adjoined by a semicircle, from the line of which free throws are made (free throw line).
A so-called three-point line is a semicircle from the basketball hoop with a radius of 6.75 meters and describes the distance from which a successful shot brings three points.

The so-called no-charging semi-circle under the basket is the area in which bumping or pushing (charging) during an attack is not punished as a foul.

The basket

The basket hangs from a board 10 feet or 3.05 meters above the field. Its diameter is 0.45 meters. The board is 1.05 meters high and 1.80 meters wide. The basket net slows down the ball falling through. A successful hit is clearly recognizable and the ball comes back into play in a vertical line.

Ball

Basketball was originally played with so-called panel balls, which were comparable to today’s volleyballs. Later, laced basketballs came into use, which had the now typical lines. Modern basketballs are made of synthetic material or leather and nylon threads. For men’s team competition, a basketball has a circumference of 749 to 780 millimeters (size 7) and a weight of 567 to 650 grams. For women’s basketball, the ball has a circumference of 724 to 737 millimeters (size 6) and a weight from 510 to 567 grams.

Sportswear

Initially, basketball players wore wool jerseys and cloth shorts, as well as knee, elbow, and shin pads. Since the 1960s, jerseys have become more comfortable, with players wearing short shorts. The basketball shoes developed from ordinary leather shoes to special sports shoes of well-known brands. Around 1980, it became common for well-known sporting goods manufacturers to contract certain basketball stars.

Beginning of the game and rules of the game

Each game begins with a so-called jump ball, which decides the first possession of the ball. One of the referees throws the ball up in the center circle between two opposing players. The players try to reach the falling ball and pass it to their teammates. Possession of the ball changes in the following quarters.

The aim of the game is to get the ball into the opponent’s half of the field by dribbling or passing to other players and throwing it into the basket from above. The basketball can also be played on the board. A successful shot is also known as a layup or dunking, which is rewarded with two points. A shot from the three-point line earns three points and a free throw earns one point.

The winner of the competition is the team that has scored more points than the opponent at the end of the game. The game consists of quarters, each quarter usually lasting ten minutes. In the event of a tie, overtime will be played for five minutes until a winner is determined. Each match is officiated by two referees, while three referees are used for matches at national and international level.

Fouls and free throws

In basketball, a distinction is made between personal, technical, unsportsmanlike and disqualifying fouls. Technical fouls include technical errors and indiscipline on the part of players and coaches. An example of an unsportsmanlike foul is hard physical contact. If this even leads to an injury to the opponent, this will be counted as a disqualifying foul.

Defenders commit fouls by holding, blocking, pushing, jostling, or tripping. Attacking fouls are illegal elbowing, pushing an opponent away, or running shoulder-first into an opponent. However, not every touching of an opponent has to be counted as a foul. The referees assess whether the contact gives the player an unfair advantage.

If a player is fouled while trying to make a basket, the fouled player is awarded the specified number of free throws that would have been possible in points. This means the player has three tries at the free-throw line. If a player is fouled while trying to throw and still scores a point, that player also gets a bonus free throw.

However, a foul without a basket attempt does not result in a free throw.

After a disqualifying foul or two unsportsmanlike fouls, the game is disqualified. The disqualified person must leave the field and the hall immediately. Five personal or technical fouls will result in loss of eligibility for the current game. These are personal penalties and do not change the number of players on the field.

Time Violation Rules

24-second rule

Each attack may last a maximum of 24 seconds, which is counted down exactly on a shot clock. After ring contact, a rally (the opposing team wins the ball and then attacks) or the referee’s final whistle for a defender’s foul, the countdown begins again. An out without changing possession does not result in a restart. By the way, a basket counts if a player throws the ball before the end of these 24 seconds.

8-second rule

If a team wins the ball or there is a throw-in, they have 8 seconds to get the ball into the opposing half. If this does not succeed, there is a throw-in for the opponent on the center line.

5-second rule

A player may hold the ball for a maximum of five seconds when throwing in or attempting a field shot.

3-second rule

When attacking, the attacking players may not remain in the opponent’s zone or in the free-throw area for more than three seconds at a time.

Out of

An out-of-bounds occurs when the ball or a player with the ball touches the ground on or outside the out-of-bounds line. However, a player still inside the field who bounces off may pass the ball back into play as long as neither the player nor the ball touches the ground out-of-bounds.

Second leg

When attacking, the ball may not be played back from the opponent’s half into your own half of the field. Return play is any movement of the ball across the center line, whether passed or dribbled. There is no return game if a defender returns the ball to the attacking team’s backcourt.

Step error

A player with the ball must dribble when moving, and if he does not do so, the opponent will be awarded a throw-in on the touchline for a step fault. When a player stops dribbling, a maximum of two foot contacts are allowed, then the ball must be played or thrown into the basket.

Double dribbling

If an attacker has the ball in his hands after dribbling, he may not try to dribble again. This double dribbling offense involves a throw-in for the opponent from the sidelines.

Goaltending

It is only allowed to catch or block the targeted ball throw from the opponent in the air as long as the ball is in upward motion. Otherwise, the ball must first touch the basket before it can be played freely again. For example, a player commits goaltending on a free throw if he touches the ball on its way to the basket before it touches the ring.
Goaltending is also preventing a basket by reaching into the net or hitting the board. The violation will be punished by the attacking team counting the basket attempt as a basket success.

Foot game

Footplay is the intentional touching of the ball with the foot, knee, or leg. Defenders’ footplay will result in the attack clock being reset if more than 10 seconds have elapsed. If there are still less than 10 seconds, you continue playing with the existing time. If an attacker commits a footplay violation, the opposing team gets the ball and the full 24 seconds of a new attack.

Basketball Variants

Over the years, different variants and modifications of the basketball game have been established. For example, there are netball, korfball, mini-basketball, netball, show basketball, water basketball, unicycle basketball and slamball. Particularly popular are:
Streetball, a modification of basketball, has been popular since the 1990s. Here two teams with three players play on just one basket and that outdoors. The basketball rules are also slightly modified. The focus of the game is on direct duels and ball handling skills.

Unicycle basketball

Wheelchair basketball was invented in the United States shortly after World War II. Because some basketball players wanted to continue their sport, even though they had suffered serious war injuries. Wheelchair basketball has been a Paralympic sport since 1960.

Beach basketball

Beach basketball was initially intended in the USA purely as a form of training for basketball, but quickly developed into a popular sport. In Germany, the playing fields are smaller than in the USA and there are two baskets in the game. The German championships in beach basketball take place in Cuxhaven every year.

Advantages

Basketball is an internationally popular sport that is played according to the same rules everywhere.
The basic equipment is inexpensive, unless you care about designer clothes and shoes.
Many parks, beaches and playgrounds have free basket structures for playing street or beach basketball.
Dribbling and shooting baskets are practiced as early as elementary school.
In amateur sports, height doesn’t count, but rather skill and skill.
If you want to do the sport seriously, you will find many active sports clubs and training opportunities in the vicinity.

Disadvantages

In order to practice this sport regularly in a hall, you have to join a club or a school team.
For those who want to take this sport more seriously, height plays a certain role.
Warming up and training is important as this sport requires speed and skill.
Although basketball is not as physical as rugby or American football, there is a risk of injury.
The ankles are also subject to particular stress, so good footwear is a basic requirement.

Conclusion on basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world and is often found in elementary schools. The same rules apply to the game anywhere in the world. Freely accessible basketball facilities in parks or playgrounds allow games and fun for free. If you want to play this sport seriously, you have to join a sports club. Exercising and good footwear are important, and height can also play a role for aspiring pros.

How to shoot a basketball

You need to be able to put the ball in the hoop.

How does a basketball game start?

A basketball game starts at the centre of the court when the ball is thrown high up by the referee and one player from each team competing to gain possession. The team that catches the ball, or in possession, is called the offensive team while the team not on the ball is the defensive team.

Who invented basketball?

Springfield College alumnus James Naismith invented basketball on campus as a graduate student of the College in 1891.

How many players on a basketball team?

5

How long did a basketball game last under the original rules?

Games were played in two 20-minute halves with a 10-minute rest time between the halves. Although not yet known as defensive goaltending, if a player touched the ball or basket when the ball was on the edge of the rim, the referee awarded one point to the shooting team.

Where was basketball invented?

James Naismith’s connection to Springfield College as a graduate student and instructor who invented the game here in Springfield, Massachusetts as part of his work with the College.

When does basketball season start?

For male athletes in the United States, the National Basketball Association (NBA) regular season runs October-April, with the playoffs extending into June. It is not unusual to play 3 to 4 games per week with the possibility of competing on back-to-back days.

Who is the best basketball player of all time?

Michael Jordan is widely known as the game’s greatest player—and for good reason. “MJ” accomplished everything possible in the game, piling up on the stats and awards. On the game’s biggest stage—the NBA Finals—Jordan went a perfect 6-for-6, also sweeping Finals MVP in his appearances.

What is a field goal in basketball?

Field goals: In the game of basketball, a field goal refers to any basket a player scores during regular game play, from inside the arc that designates the three-point line on the court. A standard field goal refers to any regulation shot a player attempts from inside the three-point line.

What are the positions in basketball?

A basketball player generally falls into one of five positions: point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward and center. Pro Tips is here with a breakdown of these five positions. Take a look at the abilities, skills and qualities needed to be successful at each position.

Who won the ncaa basketball championship in 2019?

Virginia Cavaliers Men’s Basketball

Colgate University Raiders

How to get better at basketball

Who is the best basketball player in the world?

01 Giannis Antetokounmpo.
02 Kevin Durant.
03 Stephen Curry.
04 Nikola Jokic.
05 Joel Embiid.
06 Jayson Tatum.
07 Luka Dončić
08 LeBron James

How many quarters in basketball?

In regulation, there are four quarters that last 12 minutes each. This means that there are 48 minutes in regulation. If the score is equal at the end of regulation, extra quarters of game time are played to determine the winning team. In the NBA, overtime periods last five minutes.

How long does a basketball game last?

In short, an NBA game has an average duration of 2.5 hours, although in some cases, mainly due to playing overtime, they reach a duration of up to three hours.

What is the diameter of a basketball?

approximately 9.5 inches

How does fantasy basketball work?

Fantasy basketball works on the same basic principles as any other fantasy sport: the game is based on constructing teams of players from the respective league and earning points based on their real-life performances. The points you earned determine winners and losers, whether it’s that day, that week, or that season.

Who is the richest basketball player?

According to Forbes, Michael Jordan is NBA’s richest player with a humongous net worth of US$1.7 billion.

How many basketball games in a season?

Each team plays 82 games in the regular season. Eight teams from each of the league’s two conferences qualify for the playoffs. The winners of the Conference Finals advance to the finals to determine the NBA champions.

How many basketball teams are there?

There are currently 30 teams in the NBA. The league is divided up into two conferences, the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference.

How many steps can you take in basketball?

When a player has taken more than two steps without the ball being dribbled, a traveling violation is called. In 2018, FIBA revised the rule so that one can take a “gather step” before taking the two steps. A travel can also be called via carrying or an unestablished pivot foot.

When does college basketball start?

If you’re wondering when college basketball will start for the 2021-22 season, you’re in the right place. The first NCAA game will take place on November 9, 2021, and the season will end on March 6, 2022, with March Madness following.

How to spin a basketball on your finger

Is basketball a contact sport?

The term contact sport is used to refer to sports such as basketball and handball, and the term limited-contact sport to sports like baseball, volleyball and squash.

Ultimate Frisbee Rules: More than just throwing back and forth

There is probably someone who has never played with a Frisbee. However, there is more to this game than standing face to face and tossing the disc back and forth. If you’re interested in the rules for a really awesome match, you’ve come to the right place. We explain the Ultimate Frisbee rules to you so that you are well prepared for your next game.

About Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee, invented by American students around 1960, is very popular in more than 40 countries, but mainly in the USA and Canada. The game is one of the flying disc sports, which also includes disciplines such as disc golf or freestyle. The inventors adopted game elements from the American popular sports of basketball and American football. In 1978 the first rules, which are still valid today, were drawn up. Internationally, the rules of the world Frisbee sport association World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF) are played in the current version of 2017. In the USA, the rules of the Ultimate Association (USA Ultimate) apply, which, however, differ only slightly from the WFDF set of rules.

Ultimate Frisbee is still growing as a popular sport in Germany, but there are already several dozen clubs. The German Frisbee Sports Association (DFV) based in Cologne serves as a joint professional association for all Frisbee sports in Germany. World championships for national teams have been taking place since 1983 and world championships for club teams since 1989.

What is Ultimate Frisbee?

Ultimate Frisbee is a competitive, largely non-contact running game that you can play outdoors or indoors. Here, two teams, each with seven players, face each other on a playing field with so-called end zones at its long ends. The aim of the game is to bring the Frisbee into the opponent’s end zone purely by passing it and thus score a point.

What makes the game special is the fact that there are no referees. Ultimate Frisbee relies on the spirit of the game and emphasizes mutual respect between players and the joy of the game. Since no player is likely to intentionally break the rules, control or sanctions are unnecessary.

The Ultimate Frisbee Framework

Ultimate Frisbee is mostly played on lawns. The playing field is usually a rectangle 100 meters (110 yards) long and 37 meters (40 yards) wide, with the main playing field 64 meters (70 yards) long with an end zone at each end measuring 18 meters (20 yards) long. However, the size of the playing field may be adjusted to the available space or the number of players. A playing field in Germany is usually the length and half the width of a soccer field. The baseline separates the main playing field from the end zones and the boundary lines are already part of the “off”.

The plastic throwing disc (Frisbee) weighs about 175 grams. Two teams, each with seven players, play against each other. Any number of players may be substituted after each point is won. Therefore, teams often consist of up to 15 people. For competitions and divisions there are age classifications for teams, divisions for women and for men or mixed teams (mixed division). In any case, the goal of the game is to catch the frisbee thrown by another player in the opponent’s end zone. The catcher’s team gets a point for this.

Although the game requires a lot of running, the player with the disc is not allowed to move from the spot. The attacking team tries to gain space for passes. The defenders try to get their hands on the Frisbee by covering and blocking. Unlike basketball or American football, however, any physical contact is a foul. However, there is no referee, all decisions are made by the players themselves on the field.

How to play Ultimate Frisbee

Game start

At the start of the game, the teams face each other on the baselines. The throw or “pull” comes from the defending team throwing the disc to the attacking team. After that, the players can position themselves freely on the field. The attacking team catches the throw or picks up the disc from the ground and begins play.

Game rules

The disc may be played to any team member in any direction. While all other players are free to move, the person in possession of the disc must stop immediately to continue playing the Frisbee. She is only allowed to take a star step like in basketball: One foot must remain firmly on the ground. The player with the disc (thrower) has ten seconds to throw. The immediate defender of the thrower (marker) counts up to 10 every second (stall count). This starts as soon as he is within 3 meters of the launcher. If a player misses the stall count, the thrower may keep the disc for more than ten seconds.

  • If a pass lands on the ground, is out of bounds, or is intercepted by the opposing team, possession changes (“turnover”) and the other team immediately attacks.
  • A point is scored when a player catches the disc after a pass within the attacked end zone. The latest WFDF rules also allow for a so-called Callahan point when the defending team can intercept the disc within their end zone.
  • Each point is followed by a change of sides and a new throw-off by the team that won the point. After each point, any number of players may substitute.
  • There are two halves of the game separated by a 7-minute break. Halftime is reached when one team has gained 8 points. A game ends when one team has reached 13, 15 or 17 points. There is a time limit of 100 minutes.

Player self-government and rule violations

Ultimate Frisbee is the only self-regulated team sport in the world. In general, the self-government of the players promotes fairness and the game works on the principle of reciprocity.

Any physical contact is considered a foul unless it is incidental during play. Incidental means that it must not influence the course of the game. The fouled player indicates the foul himself by shouting “Foul”. The flow of the game is frozen (“Freeze”), all players must remain standing. If the opponent immediately involved acknowledges the foul, the fouled player keeps the disc and play continues. If the fouling player does not agree (a so-called contest), the last pass is repeated. If the attacking team loses the disc through a foul by the defenders, they retain possession of the disc.

Other rule violations

  • Pick: Obstruction of another player’s defense or obstruction of sight
  • Strip: Hitting out of the hand the Frisbee that has not yet been thrown or that has already been caught
  • Fast Count: The defending player counts the pitcher too quickly
  • Off: Catching a disc in the “off” area
  • In order to prevent the latter, a so-called “travel” maneuver is permitted, as in basketball, where a player manages to jump and get the flying Frisbee back into the field from the out-of-bounds area.

Ultimate Frisbee variants

Indoors

Ultimate Frisbee is played indoors on handball or basketball courts in winter. Therefore, among other things, the size of the field and the number of players must be adjusted accordingly. It’s 5v5 and the stall count is reduced to 8. In Germany there are even separate outdoor and indoor championships.

Beach Ultimate

On clay, 4v4 or 5v5 play on a smaller field 75 meters long and 25 meters wide with two end zones of 15 meters each. The Beach Ultimate Lovers Association (BULA) has existed since 2001 for Beach Ultimate matters and the BULA rules. Beach Ultimate World Championships have been held since the first international tournament in Portugal in 2004. The World Championships and the European Championships take place every four years.

Ultimate Frisbee: yes or no?

Advantages

  • The Frisbee toy is inexpensive and no special clothing is required.
  • Every soccer field can be used immediately as an Outdoor Ultimate Frisbee playing field.
  • The handball or basketball fields can be used in the hall.
  • The game technique and the rules of the game are easy to learn.
  • Ultimate Frisbee is suitable for all ages.
  • It’s not a physical game, so the risk of injury is lower than in other team sports.
  • Self-management when rules are broken can teach children responsibility.

Disadvantages

  • Many players are needed to form teams for Ultimate Frisbee.
  • Good physical condition is required as there is a lot of walking.
  • Self-government demands discipline from players.
  • To play Ultimate Frisbee seriously, you have to join a sports club or league.

Our verdict on Ultimate Frisbee

Ultimate Frisbee is a sport that can be learned quickly. It can be played on almost any field and on grass, indoors and on the beach. This sport also keeps you fit because you have to walk a lot. This sport can be practiced quite easily and inexpensively as a pure leisure activity. However, in order to train or participate in tournaments, one must join a sports club or league.

How to throw a frisbee

How to play ultimate frisbee

What is ultimate frisbee?

Ultimate is a non-contact, self-refereed team sport played with a flying disc frisbee. The aim of the game-Two teams of seven players compete on a playing field about the same length as a football field, but narrower. At each end of the playing field there is an end zone. Each team defends one end zone.

When was the frisbee invented?

On January 23, 1957, machines at the Wham-O toy company roll out the first batch of their aerodynamic plastic discs—now known to millions of fans all over the world as Frisbees.

Who invented the frisbee?

A company designer, Ed Headrick, patented the design for the modern Frisbee in December 1967, adding a band of raised ridges on the disc’s surface–called the Rings–to stabilize flight. By aggressively marketing Frisbee-playing as a new sport, Wham-O sold over 100 million units of its famous toy by 1977.

For what purpose were the first frisbees intended?

Students from nearby universities would throw the empty pie tins to each other, yelling “Frisbie!” as they let go. In 1948, Walter Frederick Morrison and his partner Warren Franscioni invented a plastic version of the disc called the “Flying Saucer” that could fly further and more accurately than the tin pie plates.

How many players are on a ultimate frisbee team?

Ultimate is a non-contact, self-officiated disc sport played by two teams of seven players. The object of the game is to score goals. A goal is scored when a player catches any legal pass in the end zone that player is attacking. A player may not run while holding the disc.

Is ultimate frisbee a sport?

Ultimate is a non-contact, self-refereed team sport played with a flying disc frisbee. The aim of the game-Two teams of seven players compete on a playing field about the same length as a football field, but narrower. At each end of the playing field there is an end zone. Each team defends one end zone.

Even primitive society had various devices and snowshoes that prevented sinking when walking on snow when hunting. The sport of cross-country skiing evolved from a Nordic method of moving around in winter. In this Nordic type of winter sport, you not only slide down the slope on special skis with special bindings, you also use a recoil technique or skating technique to move horizontally or uphill. For the sport, specially prepared so-called trails are usually used, parallel tracks about 10 to 15 centimeters deep to facilitate the recoil technique.

The earliest evidence of this Nordic ski sport dates back to the 16th century. Cross-country skiing competitions are documented in Norway as early as 1843 and in 1924 in Chamonix there was the premiere of cross-country skiing as an integral part of the Olympic Winter Games. At the same time, the International Ski Federation (FIS) was founded there. The first official World Championships were held in Lahti in 1926, and since 1952 cross-country skiing competitions for women have also been part of the Olympic Winter Games.

Traditionally, cross-country skiing is not only popular as a popular sport, but also as a competitive sport in the Nordic countries and attracts large crowds of spectators. In addition to Northern Europe and the Alpine countries, Poland, Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and the Baltic States, cross-country skiing is also popular outside of Europe in Kazakhstan, China, Japan and Korea. Canada and the USA also have a long tradition of cross-country skiing, but cross-country skiing is less popular there as a sport. The most important competitions in cross-country skiing are organized by the world association FIS.

Sports related to cross-country skiing are biathlon, Nordic combined, ski orienteering, roller skiing, Nordic blading and Nordic walking.

Cross-country skiing is easier to learn than other types of skiing and is recommended for health reasons for recreational athletes. In cross-country skiing almost all muscle groups are used.

Requirements and Equipment

The standard equipment for cross-country skiing, both as a popular sport and for professionals, must include:
Cross-country skis with a tip that is bent upwards at the front and a slight curve in the middle with a special binding; plus sticks and shoes, as well as a helmet or hat, goggles and gloves to protect you from the winter weather. Ski wax also plays an additional role.

Cross-country skiing variants

Depending on the cross-country skiing technique, there are specialized models:

A classic cross-country ski uses the middle area (climbing zone) for contact with the snow to push off backwards.
The skating ski is shorter and less curved and also has no climbing zone.
The combination ski can be used as a compromise for both techniques and is therefore well suited for recreational sports.
The model for Nordic Cruising – the ski version of Nordic Walking – is wider and shorter and therefore offers greater maneuverability and stability.
The so-called backcountry skis, like the Nordic cruising skis, are suitable for use both on a cross-country ski run and off-road for cross-country hiking.

Shoes

It is advisable to purchase special cross-country ski shoes with properties suitable for this sport. The preferred cross-country skiing style also plays a role here. Skating shoes have a rigid sole and a laterally stabilized upper. They are also slightly higher to support the ankle during lateral movement.

Sticks

Cross-country skiing poles are slightly longer than those used in slalom or downhill skiing. With these poles you have to be able to push off diagonally backwards in cross-country skiing.

Cross-country binding

There are several systems for ski bindings, which in turn depend entirely on the footwear.

  • Nordic Norm bindings (NN) – the classic binding with and without cable pull around the heel
  • SNS (Salomon Nordic System)
  • SNS-BC bindings- a wider variant of the SNS binding with a harder flexor
  • NNN-BC bindings – a variant of the NNN binding with a more massive metal pin and a slightly
  • harder flexor
  • Strap Binding (Hagan)

Therefore, in addition to personal style preferences, the respective shoe models must be taken into account, or it is advisable to purchase the shoes beforehand.

Ski wax

When it comes to ski models, a distinction is also made between “Wax” and “Nowax” skis.
With wax skis, the climbing zone must be provided with a special adhesive wax before use. A Nowax ski has mechanical (scales, crowns, skin) or chemical (chemoski) climbing aids in the climbing zone.

In competitive sports, skis are usually waxed because better gliding properties can be achieved. Which wax is used depends on the current snow situation or the type of snow, the temperature and the humidity. Fresh snow at zero degrees, for example, means that no wax is required. However, every cross-country ski should be treated with glide wax in the gliding zone, if only to protect the base from corrosion.

Cross-country skiing styles

In cross-country skiing, a basic distinction is made between the classic style and the skating style. Skating was not permitted in competitions for a long time. The International Ski Federation stipulated that at least one ski had to remain on the trail. This led to the use of the so-called half-skate step. In 1986, the World Federation decided not only to allow skating in biathlon. Since then, competitions have been held either in the classic style with parallel ski guidance in a groomed cross-country ski run or in free style using the skating technique.

Classic style: parallel ski guidance

The parallel cross-country skiing style dominated cross-country skiing for a long time and is therefore also considered a classic cross-country skiing style. For a long time, parallel ski guidance (diagonal step with use of double poles) in cross-country skiing was the only locomotion permitted in competitions. This style is also best used on machine-groomed trails.

Classic-style locomotion sequences include

  • double stick thrust
  • Double deck with intermediate step
  • diagonal step
  • half herringbone step
  • herringbone

Free style or skating

So-called skating, a locomotion technique based on the leg movements of ice skating, came about around 1970.

The movement techniques are:

  • Ice skating without sticks
  • Arm swing technique – two leg lifts with one stick use
  • One-beater – use a stick with each leg push
  • Guide arm technique – two leg prints in one pole use, usually on the mountain
  • Diagonal skating – skating step with diagonal stick use

Other cross-country locomotion techniques

Other locomotion techniques in cross-country skiing are similar to those in downhill or slalom skiing:

  • Pflug – A-shape skis
  • plow arch
  • arching
  • archery
  • swing shapes
  • stop swing
  • Stick lever brake – the sticks are clawed into the snow or held between the legs and then pulled
  • towards the body.
  • Telemark – kneeling riding style

Weaving – like in downhill skiing by shifting your weight

cross-country skiing competitions
Cross-country skiing competitions are held in different styles and over different distances. The specific styles that all athletes must follow are pre-determined for specific races. In the relays, the first two runners usually run classic, the last two in free style.

The usual competition disciplines, also for the Olympic Winter Games, are:

Sprint

In the 1.5 kilometer sprint, cross-country skiers can decide whether they want to run freestyle or in a classic style. After a qualifying round, the best 16 runners are in the quarter-finals in four races with four participants each. This is followed by semi-finals (two races with four participants each) and finals (one race with four participants). The winner of the final wins the gold medal.

Team Sprint

A cross-country team consists of two runners who take turns sprinting for a total of six laps.

Classic style

In the classic style, skating is prohibited; there are 10 and 30 kilometer races for women and 15 and 50 kilometer events for men. All races have a single start, with participants starting 30 seconds apart. The fastest runner wins.

Freestyle

Any running technique, including skating, is allowed in the freestyle races. Women run 15 kilometers and men 30 kilometers. Both races are mass starts, with the top-ranked runners in the FIS ranking also receiving better starting positions. Whoever reaches the goal first wins.

Pursuit race, chase start or chase race

In the pursuit competition, there are two races in one day: first a classic-style run (women’s 5 and men’s 10 kilometers), followed by 5 and 10 kilometers in freestyle, respectively. The starting order results from the running time of the first race. This mode is also known as the Gundersen method. Whoever reaches the goal first wins.

Series

Women complete 4 x 5, men 4 x 10 kilometers, in the first two runs in classic style, the third and fourth runners of a team in free style. Both races are mass start. The assigned lane may only be changed after 100 meters.

Cross-country skiing rules for amateur athletes

In principle, pedestrians have no place on the groomed trails. There is a risk of accidents. Dogs are to be kept on a leash. The rules for the amateur cross-country skiers are:

  • consideration for others
  • Every cross-country skier must behave in such a way that he does not endanger or harm anyone else.
  • Signage, running direction and running technique
  • Markings and signals (signs) must be observed. On cross-country ski trails and slopes, you have to run in the indicated direction and running technique.
  • Choice of track and slope
  • On double and multiple lanes, you must walk in the right lane. Cross-country skiers in groups must run one behind the other in the right lane. In free running technique, it is to run on the right side of the piste.
  • overtake
  • You can overtake on the right or left. The runner in front does not need to move. But he should dodge if he can do it safely.
  • oncoming traffic
  • In encounters, everyone has to move to the right. The departing cross-country skier has priority.
  • stick guidance
  • When overtaking, being overtaken and during encounters, the sticks must be kept close to the body.
  • Adaptation of the speed to the conditions
  • Every cross-country skier has to adapt their speed and behavior to their ability, the terrain, traffic density and visibility, especially on downhill stretches. He must keep a sufficient safety distance to the runner in front. If necessary, he must drop to avoid a collision.
  • Keeping the cross-country trails and pistes free
  • If you stop, you step off the trail/piste. A cross-country skier who has fallen must clear the trail/piste as quickly as possible.
  • assistance
  • In the event of an accident, everyone is obliged to provide assistance.
  • Identification required
  • Everyone, whether witness or participant, whether responsible or not, must provide their personal details in the event of an accident.

What is cross-country skiing?

From a technical point of view, the difference between the two types of skiing is that in cross country skiing only the toe of your boot is attached to your ski. In downhill skiing, the entire boot is attached to the ski by your binding. Cross country skiers can go up, and down, a variety of terrains.

How to size cross-country skis

To size a traditional pair of cross country skis, start by multiplying your height in inches by 2.7, then add 15 inches to that number to get a good approximation of your size.

How to put on cross-country skis

How long should cross-country skis be?

To calculate the length of your classic cross-country skis you should add 15 to 20cm to your height. Your weight and skiing ability should also be taken into account.

How much snow do you need to cross-country ski?

At the beginning of the winter season, snowfall may be minimal. A minimum of 4-6 inches of snow is needed to pack trails depending on moisture content. When snow depth increases, trails will be groomed with tracks for classical skiing set.

The giant slalom, also called giant slalom in Austria and in English giant slalom, occurs as a discipline in alpine skiing and grass skiing. This sport differs from slalom and super-G. It was not introduced by the FIS until 1950 at the World Championships in Aspen as the fourth discipline alongside downhill, slalom and combination. Since the introduction of the World Cup, the giant slalom has been an integral part of this racing series. Compared to the other alpine disciplines, a professional giant slalom is most similar to activities in popular sports.

In giant slalom, the gates to be bypassed are set in such a way that there are constant changes of direction. However, the gates are set further apart and in fewer numbers than in slalom. Therefore fewer turns are necessary and a fluid, gliding rhythm and thus higher speeds are possible. In addition, the route is usually longer and contains more flat slides. In competitions before 1966 and 1967 there was only one run in the giant slalom, now in competitions two runs are usually run on one day and the times achieved are added up.

Competition rules

Like slalom, giant slalom is one of the technical competitions where two different runs with different course settings have to be completed on the same slope on the same day. It is also possible to create two different routings. This means that only the start and finish are in the same place in both rounds. This depends on the dimensions of the slope and the snow and weather conditions. The times of both runs are added and the fastest total time means victory. Since the giant slalom course is longer than in slalom, the best times for a run are around 80 seconds.

A race course for a giant slalom competition usually has at least 250 meters in altitude, for women a maximum of 400 meters and for men 450 meters. The number of changes in direction must be about 11 to 15 percent of the height difference. At the Olympic Winter Games, FIS Ski World Championships and in the FIS World Cup, the minimum difference in altitude is 300 m (women and men).

Giant Slalom Gates

Unlike slalom poles, giant slalom gates consist of a double pole connected by a wide plastic strip, slalom gates are individual poles of the same color in blue or red. The first and last gate and combinations must be marked with a so-called outer gate in the same color.

In slalom, the turns are much shorter and the racers come into contact with the poles. In contrast, in giant slalom the line taken is less direct and the gates are much further apart. This means the racers come into less contact with the gates. You push them away with your inside shoulder and not with your hand like slalom runners do. The gates are also built to flex flexibly when touched by the driver. They are also less firmly anchored in the snow than slalom gates. They therefore offer less resistance and will be swept along should racers drive straight into them. This minimizes the risk of injury.

Start regulations

For slalom and giant slalom, the so-called Bibbo rule has applied to the starting order since 1971/72, named after its “inventor”, the Swede Bibbo Nordenskjöld. Before that there were starting groups from 1 to 15, from 16 to 30, from 31 to 45 and in the second round everyone in their group started in reverse order, from 15 to 1, from 30 to 16 and so on.

Since 1985, the second run has been settled based on the placement from the first run. Only the top thirty from the first run will start in the second round. At first there were two groups, with the first fifteen of the first run starting as the first group in reverse order, so the best run as fifteenth. Then the remaining runners start as a second group in the order of their first run results. In order to increase equal opportunities and the possibility of improving the placement, the top 30 now compete in reverse order. This means that the best-placed driver from the first run will start last in the second run.

There is also the “Super Bibbo Rule”, whereby the first five from the first run start in reverse order, then the others from rank 6 in the order of their placement from the first run.

Equipment

The basic equipment for giant slalom is similar to that for Super-G and downhill skiing. However, there are some specific differences that need to be considered when equipping each discipline.

Giant slalom ski

The ski models used for giant slalom and super-G are longer and stiffer than slalom skis, but 30 percent shorter than a downhill ski. The radius is also important. A radius specification refers to the natural radius of the ski. For the measurement, the ski is placed on its edge and bent so far that the edge lies continuously on the ground. The natural curve radius of a ski can be calculated from this curved line.

The length of giant slalom skis has changed in recent years. In 2012, for example, the FIS extended the curve radius of skis from 27 to 35 meters in order to minimize athletes’ knee problems. The higher the radius and thus the length of the ski, the greater the effort required to guide the ski, which in turn led to more back problems among the athletes. Currently, a smaller radius of 30 meters and a sidecut of 35 meters apply again. The minimum length is 193 centimeters for men and 188 centimeters for women.

Suit and protections

The racers wear skin-tight ski suits to minimize air resistance. However, the material must have a precisely defined air permeability. Each race organized by the International Ski Federation (FIS) only allows suits that have been previously checked by the FIS and provided with a seal on the left leg.
Ski helmets and back protection are also required for races, as well as goggles and gloves.

Ski poles

In the downhill and in the Super-G, ski poles are often only used to keep your balance, in slalom and giant slalom they also help you change direction. Ski poles are made from a lightweight material such as aluminum or carbon. A ski pole tube has a diameter of about 1 to 2 centimeters and is slightly curved, as it offers less air resistance. There are loops on the handles for a secure hold. At the bottom of a pole there is a plate that ensures that the ski poles do not penetrate the snow very deeply. The shape of the baskets, the poles and their length differ depending on the specific ski discipline.

Ski boots

The right ski boots are necessary for optimal power transmission from the foot to the ski. Ski boots are of solid construction and are usually made of plastic and composite materials. Racers prefer hard to very hard ski boots that are narrow and narrow. In this case, comfort is of secondary importance, but the optimal individual fit counts. The flex index is used to indicate the degree of hardness, the higher this is, the harder the shoe is. Ski boots for racers have a flex index of 150.
There are also differences between men’s and women’s ski boots: Due to women’s lower calves, the shaft of the ski boots is slightly lower.

Giant slalom and grass skiing

Giant slalom also occurs as a discipline in grass skiing with almost identical rules. The following applies to the race track: A race track for a giant slalom has a height difference of at least 80 meters, in the World Cup and World Championships at least 100 meters, for women a maximum of 150 meters and for men 180 meters. The number of changes in direction is about 11 to 15 percent of the difference in altitude, for example 14 changes in direction for a difference in altitude of 100 meters. The FIS regulates the regulations for the course setting of a giant slalom.

What is the difference between giant slalom and super g

Skiers make two runs for each event, and their times for both are combined. The Super G, as the Super Giant Slalom is known, is considered a speed event, and each skier makes only one run. The course is longer than the one for the Giant Slalom with a higher vertical drop.

What is the difference between slalom and giant slalom

The giant slalom has characteristics of both the slalom and the downhill, the latter a longer, faster race. Giant slalom gates are wider and set farther apart, and the course is longer than in the slalom.

Slalom is the oldest competition in alpine skiing and at the same time the slowest and most technically demanding discipline. The hallmark of this slalom competition is the particularly short gate distances, which require quick changes of direction. The word itself comes from the Norwegian expression slalåm, a compound term of sla ‘small slope or incline’ and låm ‘tow track’ or ‘narrow path’, i.e. ‘ski track with an even drop’. The first competition in this sport took place in 1905 near Lilienfeld on the Muckenkogel. It was not until 1922 that the term “slalom” caught on and rules were laid down. In 1928, the International Ski Federation (FIS) included slalom in its set of rules as one of the alpine disciplines alongside Nordic skiing. In 1931 the first alpine world championships finally took place and at the Olympic Games in 1936 alpine skiing was Olympic for the first time, but as a combination. It wasn’t until 1948 that the first slalom Olympic champions in skiing history were born.

Competition rules

Slalom and giant slalom are among the technical competitions, where two different runs with different course settings have to be completed on the same slope on the same day. It is also possible to create two different routes so that only the start and finish are in the same place in both rounds. This depends on the dimensions of the slope and the snow and weather conditions. The times of both runs are added and the fastest total time means victory.

The difference in height in slalom races in the World Cup, Continental Cups, World Championships and Olympic Games is a minimum of 180 meters and a maximum of 220 meters for men and a minimum of 140 and a maximum of 200 meters for women. The slope of the slope usually measures between 33 and 45 percent, less than 33 percent is also robbed. In exceptional cases, the gradient may be up to 52 percent on short sections.

Before the race, every racer has the opportunity to visit the slalom course and discuss the best line with fellow drivers or the trainer. Each slalom competition consists of two runs, with the running times being added to give a total time.

Slalom gates

A series of gates, which can be either two red poles or two blue poles, determine the slalom course. The task for the racers is to pass between the two poles. The tip of the ski and the feet must pass the gate correctly. The width of the gates is at least four meters and a maximum of 6 meters. The distance from rotating bar to rotating bar of subsequent gates must be at least six meters and at most thirteen meters. These gates are placed in various combinations as a technical challenge for the racer. In slalom, the turns are much shorter than in giant slalom, so the runners are in constant contact with the poles.

Up until 1980, the slalom poles were rigid and inflexible; in the early years of slalom competitions, they were simple wooden poles. Therefore, the racers were forced to make larger turns to avoid contact with the poles. Today, flex bars are used that bend down with every touch. It is therefore possible for the racers to ski in a direct fall line or ideal line, while knocking off the poles with the ski poles or shins.

Start regulations

For slalom and giant slalom, the so-called Bibbo rule has applied to the starting order since 1971/72, named after its “inventor”, the Swede Bibbo Nordenskjöld. Accordingly, the second run will be settled based on the placement from the first run. In the second run, in which only the 30 fastest of the first run are allowed, the racers start in reverse order of the intermediate result.

From the mid-1980s, the top 15 started in reverse order, followed by the remaining 16th to 30th. In order to increase the chances of rank improvement, the starting order of the top 30 has now been reversed. This means that the fastest runner in the first run will start last in the second run.

There is also a “Super Bibbo rule”, whereby the first five from the first run start in reverse order, then the others from place 6 in the order of their placement from the first run.

Equipment

The basic equipment for alpine skiing is similar for recreational and professional sports. However, there are some specific differences that need to be considered when equipping each discipline.

Slalom ski

The respective discipline determines the type of ski. Ski models used for giant slalom and super-G are longer and stiffer than a slalom ski, a downhill ski is 30 percent longer. The radius is also important. A radius specification refers to the natural radius of the ski. For the measurement, the ski is placed on its edge and bent so far that the edge lies continuously on the ground. The natural curve radius of a ski can be calculated from this curved line.

In slalom, the introduction of the carving ski further increased the race pace after the flex poles changed skiing technique. An example: The average speed of a slalom runner in the 1950s was just under 23 kilometers per hour, now it is around 40.

According to FIS regulations, the minimum length of slalom skis is 165 centimeters for men and 155 centimeters for women.

Suit and protections

The racers wear skin-tight ski suits to minimize air resistance. However, the material must have a precisely defined air permeability. Each race organized by the International Ski Federation (FIS) only allows suits that have been previously checked by the FIS and provided with a seal on the left leg.

Not only the driving technique has fundamentally changed due to the flex poles, but also the equipment for the slalom competitions. Ski helmets with face protection, back protection as well as shin guards and hand guards are also required for races so that you do not injure yourself when you come into contact with the slalom poles.

Ski poles

In the downhill and in the Super-G, ski poles are often only used to keep your balance, in slalom and giant slalom they also help you change direction. Ski poles are made from a lightweight material such as aluminum or carbon. A ski pole tube has a diameter of about 1 to 2 centimeters and is slightly curved, as it offers less air resistance. There are loops on the handles for a secure hold. At the bottom of a pole there is a plate that ensures that the ski poles do not penetrate the snow very deeply. The shape of the plates, the sticks and their length differ somewhat for the specific ski disciplines.

Ski boots

The right ski boots are necessary for optimal power transmission from the foot to the ski. Ski boots are of solid construction and are usually made of plastic and composite materials. Racers prefer hard to very hard ski boots that are narrow and narrow. In this case, comfort is of secondary importance, but the optimal individual fit counts. The flex index is used to indicate the degree of hardness, the higher, the harder the shoe. Ski boots for racers have a flex index of 150.
There are also differences between men’s and women’s ski boots: Due to women’s lower calves, the shaft of the ski boots is slightly lower.

Slalom variants

Night slalom

This type of slalom is run at night or after dark and standard slalom racing rules apply. The first night slalom took place in Austria in 1950 at the Semmering. At the Alpine World Ski Championships in 1996, the first night slalom took place in the Spanish Sierra Nevada.

Parallel slalom

In the special form of parallel slalom, there is a knockout system (also called a city event).
A new formula was tried out in 2017: After a “normal” first run, the top thirty drove a sprint slalom with 27 seconds, followed by the top 15 again the 27-second course. So there were three passes to determine the winners.

Grass Ski Slalom

In grass ski slalom, the piste is shorter and flatter, and for world championships and world cup races, the difference in altitude is 90 to 140 meters for men and 80 to 140 meters for women. For all other FIS competitions, there is a difference in altitude of 80 to 120 meters for men and 60 to 120 meters for women. The slope gradient of 25 to 40 percent may be lower if necessary, and higher in short sections. Flex poles are also used for grass skis.

Slalom in other sports

In addition to automobile slalom, there are also slalom competitions in canoeing, water skiing, windsurfing, snowboarding and skateboarding.

How to slalom skate

How to set up skateboard slalom

What is the difference between giant slalom and super g?

Skiers make two runs for each event, and their times for both are combined. The Super G, as the Super Giant Slalom is known, is considered a speed event, and each skier makes only one run. The course is longer than the one for the Giant Slalom with a higher vertical drop.

How do slalom skiers know where to go?

Slalom skiers know which gates to go around because a slalom course has a set of alternating gates. These are almost always in pairs of blue and red, and the number of gates used is between 40 to 60 for women and 55 to 75 for men.

How to test ski camber slalom

How fast do slalom skiers go?

For reference, athletes who compete in giant slalom typically reach speeds of around 50 mph, while slalom skiers clock in around 43 mph.

How tight slalom skate boot?

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Downhill skiing, also known as downhill or downhill racing, is a discipline in alpine skiing. As the so-called supreme discipline, the downhill slalom is one of the oldest and longest alpine ski competitions. And also among the most dangerous due to the high speeds that are achieved. In the World Cup races, downhill skiers reach speeds of more than 130 kilometers per hour. At the legendary Hahnenkamm race in Kitzbühel, 150 and at the Lauberhorn race in Wengen even up to 160 kilometers per hour were measured.

Therefore, in addition to the right equipment, the strength, endurance, excellent skiing technique and courage of the downhill skier are crucial. The winning time of a downhill run in the World Cup is usually around two minutes.

Equipment

The equipment for downhill skiing is slightly different compared to the other skiing disciplines.

Downhill ski

A downhill ski is 30 percent longer than a slalom ski, providing additional stability. The minimum length is 218 centimeters for men and 210 centimeters for women, the ski may be no more than 95 millimeters wide at the tip and no more than 65 millimeters wide at the narrowest point. The radius is also important.

The radius specification refers to the natural radius of the ski. For the measurement, the ski is placed on its edge and bent so far that the edge lies continuously on the ground. The natural curve radius of a ski can be calculated from this curved line. The minimum radius for downhill skis in the World and European Cups is 50 meters.

Suit and protections

During downhill skiing, the racers wear skin-tight ski suits to minimize air resistance. However, the material must have a precisely defined air permeability. Each race organized by the International Ski Federation (FIS) only allows suits that have been previously checked by the FIS and provided with a seal on the left leg.
Ski helmets and back protection are also required for races, as well as goggles and gloves.

Ski poles

In downhill skiing and in Super-G, ski poles are often only used to keep your balance, which is very important in tight and fast corners and at high speeds. Ski poles are made from a lightweight material such as aluminum or carbon. A ski pole tube has a diameter of about 1 to 2 centimeters and is slightly curved, as it offers less air resistance.

Downhill skiing often involves squatting, with poles often held under the arms and against the body. There are loops on the handles for a secure hold. At the bottom of a pole there is a plate that ensures that the ski poles do not penetrate the snow very deeply. The shape of the baskets of downhill poles and their length differ from cross-country poles: downhill poles are shorter.

Ski boots

The right ski boots are necessary for optimal power transmission from the foot to the ski. Ski boots are of solid construction and are usually made of plastic and composite materials. Racers prefer hard to very hard ski boots that are narrow and narrow. In this case, comfort is of secondary importance, but the optimal individual fit counts. The flex index is used to indicate the degree of hardness, the higher, the harder the shoe. Ski boots for racers have a flex index of 150.
There are also differences between men’s and women’s ski boots: Due to women’s lower calves, the shaft of the ski boots is slightly lower.

There is also special equipment for downhill skiing on the slopes: the gate poles are flexible so that they offer as little resistance as possible when touched and the gates are a maximum of eight meters wide.

Competition sailing

The first downhill rules date from 1921, drawn up by Sir Arnold Lunn for the British National Championships. Downhill skiing is only permitted on a piste that is specially closed and marked for downhill skiing.

The downhill run

A typical downhill race leads over a specially prepared slope, which is cordoned off before the race and marked with single-colored gates. In addition, route limitations are marked by coloring the snow. Typical downhill race tracks contain different levels of difficulty, such as jumps, steep and flat parts and curves, where different techniques and skills of the downhill are required. Downhill courses for the Olympic Winter Games and FIS competitions are subject to special tests with regard to technical requirements. It must be possible to travel the route at different speeds from start to finish.

Another regulation concerns the height difference in downhill races in the World Cup, in the Continental Cups, at World Championships and at the Olympic Games. For men this is a minimum of 800 meters and a maximum of 1,100 meters, for women a minimum of 500 and a maximum of 800 meters.

Start regulations

There have been changes and modifications to the starting order in the history of downhill for the purpose of equal opportunities. Because the slope conditions often deteriorate in the course of a race, the change in the starting order should compensate for this. For the World Cup downhill races, the current ten best in the world rankings can choose an odd start number between 1 and 19. Those in positions 11 to 20 in the world rankings will be drawn on the even starting numbers between 2 and 20, starting positions 21 to 30 between those in positions 21 to 30 in the world rankings. This launch mode also applies to the Super-G.

When downhill competitions usually only a single run is completed. An exception is the sprint descent, in which a much shorter race track is covered in two runs. At all levels of racing, from local youth races to World Cup races, downhill skiers are allowed to inspect the piste before the race. You can also do up to three pre-competition training runs. Here the skiers try to memorize the conditions of the route as best as possible.

Sprint downhill

When visibility and weather conditions are poor in the upper part of the course, the racing jury sometimes decides to carry out a sprint descent. This takes place in the lower part of the route and is held in two runs. The difference in altitude must be at least 450 meters.

How to dress for downhill skiing

  • Long underwear
  • Light fleece or wool top
  • Ski or snowboard socks
  • Ski or snowboard jacket
  • Ski or snowboard pants (or bibs)
  • Gloves or mittens
  • Helmet
  • Goggles
  • Neck gaiter or balaclava

https://youtu.be/0NBb9MoU6k8

Where to buy downhill skis?

How much do downhill skis cost?

A new set of skis can cost anywhere from $400 to $1000. Unfortunately, you need the boots and bindings too if your skis are going to serve you at all. These add on yet another costly purchase. The total price for a ski setup can range from $600 to $1500.

Where can I buy downhill skis online?

Evo.com
Backcountry.com
REI Co-op.
The House
Amazon.com

Where is the inferno downhill ski course?

The Inferno Race in the Swiss Alpine resort of Mürren was organized for the first time in 1928 by a group of “ski-crazy” Brits. Today it is the largest amateur skiing race in the world.

Ski jumping, also known as jumping or special jumping, is an individual sport that requires courage and strong nerves. After all, the athletes have to rely exclusively on the carrying capacity of an air cushion. At breakneck speed, the athletes throw themselves down a ski jump on special jumping skis in order to jump as far as possible. To do this, the ski jumpers try to gain as much speed as possible from their start on the ramp, take off at the best possible time at the take-off table and jump as far as possible. A jury awards points, with style and attitude playing a role in addition to distance and, most recently, also the wind.

Depending on the size of the hill, there are normal and large hill competitions. Due to the distances achieved on the large hills, one also speaks of ski flying there. Although ski jumping is a typical winter sport, competitions have also been held in summer for some time. In this so-called mat jumping, special plastic mats are used as a substitute for snow, which have similar properties to snow. A separate special discipline with its own rules is the so-called Nordic combined with ski jumping and cross-country skiing.

Ski jumping as a competition among soldiers in Norway can be traced back to the end of the 18th century. In 1882 the Norwegian royal family donated the Royal Cup for ski jumping at the famous Holmenkollen. Norwegians who emigrated to Europe and North America also spread this sport. Although ski jumping is relatively widespread, it is not a mass sport because it is dangerous and technically demanding. In addition, the maintenance of the ski jumps and the material for the ski jumper is quite expensive.

International and Europe-wide ski jumping began in Mürzzuschlag in Austria in 1891, when people jumped from a snow-covered dung heap. In 1924, ski jumping became an Olympic discipline at the first official Winter Games in Chamonix. The large hill competition was introduced in Innsbruck in 1964, team jumping in Calgary in 1988. Women’s ski jumping has also been part of the Olympic Games since 2014.

Requirements and Equipment

The ski jumps are divided into the categories normal hill and large hill. The decisive factors here are the hill height (hill size), the standard point and the K point.

The norm point is the distance between the take-off point and the so-called K-point. At the same time, it is the distance that can be safely reached by the jumpers.
The construction point, k-point, k-point or critical point denotes that point at which the slope of the jump hill becomes flatter. The K point is usually marked by a red line. However, this also increases the risk of falls. This K point also plays a role in scoring.

A normal hill usually has a standard point between 75 and 99 meters and a hill height between 85 and 109 meters. The standard point for the large hill is 120 meters. A hill with a hill size of at least 185 meters and a construction point of at least 145 meters is considered a ski flying hill. Ski jumps with smaller dimensions are considered normal hills. Most ski jumpers are also active in all disciplines on both hill sizes.

Equipment

The competition equipment for ski jumpers is subject to strict rules and only those whose equipment complies with the official regulations are allowed to take part in competitions. The term equipment refers to clothing (suit, helmet, goggles, gloves, jumping shoes) as well as skis with special bindings and other technical functions. New developments must be approved by the International Ski Federation (FIS).

With the special jumping skis, the ski length is important. This may have to be shortened if a jumper falls below a body mass index of 20. Since 2011, a body mass index of at least 20.5 including suit and shoes has been required to use the full length of the ski. The reason is that very light jumpers can generally stay in the air longer. Wearing a start number is also mandatory.

The one-piece jump suits have specified maximum air permeability values ​​(30 to 40 liters per minute), the material is usually a chintz fabric that has to be 3 to 5 millimeters thick. There are also special suits for downwind or headwind situations. At the beginning of the season, the suits are measured and “sealed”. The quality of the underwear is now also standardized and prescribed. The FIS also always carries out spot checks at competitions. All athletes are responsible for ensuring the regular equipment. There are penalties for violations, which in the worst case can include the withdrawal of the competition accreditation.

Jump styles

Requirements for the athletes are not only the stature but also strong nerves and a good body feeling. In addition to jumping power, the correct technique for ski jumps, jumps and landings is also trained.

The ski jumpers start at the beam at the top of the ski jump, ski down the ski jump in a predetermined and specially prepared track in a squatting position, arms behind. Speeds of 90 to 110 km/h can be achieved. Jumping takes place as soon as the edge of the hill is reached and the jumpers try to pull the flight as far as possible.

There have been different styles over time. Initially, the skis were held parallel and the arms stretched forward when taking off. The parallel position with arms on the sides of the body was standard in competitions for a long time before the so-called V-style was established in the 1990s. Here the skis are held in a V-position during the flight phase, the body is bent forward and tensed and the arms are guided parallel to the body. This technique can also be used to achieve the greatest distances.

Telemark landing

Since the first ski jumping competitions were mostly held by residents of the Telemark province in Norway, the perfect and required type of landing is still called “Telemark”. Here, the athlete has to make a lunge step when touching down and bend his knees slightly.

The competition rules

In the ski jumping competition, there are individual competitions and team competitions, each with two rounds. A team consists of four jumpers, three of which are counted. The jury, usually consisting of five judges from different participating nations, calculates the overall score from the distance and posture grades: This number of points is decisive for the placement in the daily competition, these placements also determine the ranking in the World Cup. The decisive factor is primarily the distance achieved, but value is also placed on the jumping position and an elegant telemark landing.

The best known and most popular ski jumping competitions are the Ski Flying World Championships and the Four Hills Tournament.

Scoring

The jumpers get two extra points for every meter they fly over the K-line and lose two points for every meter they stay behind. If they land directly on the line, Olympians usually get 60 points.

For the large hill, the distance to the K-Point must be more than 100 meters and the hill height must be more than 110 meters. A jumper gets 1.8 points per meter flown over the line or 1.8 points per meter deduction if he lands behind the line.

In addition, posture during flight, correct landing and, since 2010, the prevailing wind conditions are also important. A maximum of 20 points can be awarded for posture. Of the five jury ratings, the best and the worst points are discarded and three remain. A jumper can therefore achieve a maximum of 60.0 points in one round.

In a competition there is usually a qualification jump and then two classification jumps. The best 50 of the qualification take part in the first evaluation, the 30 best of the first evaluation jump may take part in the second round. The jumper with the most points wins the jump or the competition at the end.

Rules for individual competitions in ski jumping

The individual competition begins with a qualifying jump with a points evaluation, followed by two main rounds for the top 50 jumpers in the qualification. The jumpers are also assigned partners against whom they compete in the first of the two rounds.

The resulting 25 winners and the so-called “lucky losers” (the best last five of the qualification) then advance to the second round. If this is canceled due to the weather, the result of the first round counts as the final decision.

The regulation that applied until 2017, that the best 10 jumpers in the World Cup do not have to take part in the qualification, no longer applies.

Rules for team competitions

The team competition always takes place on the large hill with teams from the different country groups, each consisting of four team members. Two rounds are counted. After the first round, the top eight qualify for the final round, in which the participants compete in reverse order of their placement. The overall result is calculated from the accumulated points of all team members.

Women Ski Jumping

Although there have always been girls in the teams of children and young people, it was not until 2002 that women were officially recognized in ski jumping. In the 2003/04 season, the FIS organized the first official women’s ski jumping competition as part of the Junior World Championships in Stryn (Norway). In 2009, as part of the Nordic World Ski Championships, the first official women’s ski jumping world championships were held, and in 2006 the first official junior world championships for women were held. At the World Championships that followed, women’s team competitions were also introduced. Ski jumping for women on the normal hill has been an Olympic discipline since 2014.

In team jumping in the World Cup, there are now also mixed teams of men and women. In 2012, these mixed competitions were held for the first time in Courchevel and Lillehammer as World Cup competitions.

How to get a high score on wii fit ski jump

How do you score points in ski jumping?

Competitors are awarded 60 points (normal and large hills) and 120 points (flying hills) if they land on the K-point. For every meter beyond or below the K-point, extra points are awarded or deducted; the typical value is 2 points per meter in small hills, 1.8 points in large hills and 1.2 points in ski flying hills.

How do you ski jump on Wii?

To play Ski Jump, the player needs to squat with their knees bent. It will push them forward. If they put them forward in the blue area, they will gain speed. When they reach the end of the ramp, which is colored red, they must extend their knees, and then hold their balance.

What are ski jumping skis made of?

Jumping skis are widest and longest type of skis used in Winter Olympic sports. They are made of a light plastic material and designed for optimal aerodynamic flight.

How do they measure ski jumping distance?

The distance is measured along the curve of the landing hill from the take-off point to the exact place where the jumper’s feet touch the landing slope.

How to jump on skis

How do beginners jump on skis?

How do you land jump when skiing?

Jump up and down on a flat area of snow. As you jump up, use your toes as levers and spring of them to gain better height. As you try this you should feel your shins against the front of your boots, which means you are moving your center of gravity forward. Repeat the exercise, when wearing skis.

Can anyone learn to ski jump?

Ski jumping really isn’t that difficult to learn and you certainly do not need to be an adrenaline-pumping skiing expert to give this snowsports activity a go.

Karate is one of the most well-known martial arts in Asia. The Japanese word means “empty hand”. The legend speaks of the Buddhist monk Master Bodhidharma, who reached the Shaolin Monastery in the 6th century. In addition to Zen Buddhism, he also taught the monks physical exercises, from which Shaolin Kung Fu developed. Karate also likes to refer to this legend, but traces of it can be found in Okinawa in the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, this martial art first reached Japan and was recognized there as a national sport. After the Second World War, via Hawaii and the American occupation of Japan, karate became more and more popular as a sport, first in the USA and then in Europe.

The training center for karate is called a dōjō. The first karate schools in Japan, as well as schools for judo and kendo, served primarily for military training. According to the hierarchy system established in judo, there was also a division into student and master degrees in karate, which is recognizable by the color of the belt.

A good physical constitution is important for karate, because karate stands for mobility, speed and anaerobic resilience. Limbs are hardened in order to be able to smash boards or bricks safely in the so-called breaking test. As a sport, however, karate is geared more towards competitive training.

The four styles of karate

In karate there are many styles and schools, based on the pioneers of karate and their styles. Japanese karate can be roughly divided into four styles: Gōjū-ryū, Shōtōkan, Shitō-ryū and Wadō-ryū. These four styles can in turn be traced back to the Shōrei-ryū and Shōrin-ryū styles originating from Okinawa. Many of the newer styles refer to one or more of these six schools. In Germany, Shōtōkan is the most widespread karate style, Gōjū-Ryū is also popular. In addition to the styles mentioned, original styles such as Uechi-ryū continue to be taught.

The core of the karate training are punching, pushing, kicking and blocking techniques as well as foot sweeping techniques, some lever and throwing techniques as well as choke holds and nerve point techniques for advanced learners. Although so-called kobudō weapons can also be part of a training, weapon training is not part of the content of karate.

Karate apparel

Uniform clothing in karate has prevailed over time. A karate student or karateka wears a special suit called a karate-gi. This consists of simple white trousers tied at the waist, called zubon, and a jacket, called uwagi, which used to be made of linen but are now mostly made of cotton. The jacket is held together by a colored belt called an obi. The belt color indicates the student’s status. It is basically trained barefoot.

Belt Color and Graduation

The hierarchical system, indicated by the belt color, was probably adopted from the sport of judo.

In these graduations, a distinction is made between the student grades Kyū and the master students or master grades Dan. Each of these levels is represented by a belt color. In Germany there are 9 kyū and 10 dan grades. The ninth kyū is the lowest level with a white belt, followed by yellow, orange, green, blue-purple, blue and brown for the 3rd to 1st kyū. Black is reserved for the 10 dan grades.

In order to obtain a higher student or master’s degree, there are exams according to a fixed program and there is also a waiting period. These are different depending on the kyū and dan grade.

Protective clothing

Mouth guards, chest guards or groin guards are usually used in tournaments, as well as fist and foot guards and shin guards.

Karate Rules

Karate also has a spiritual core, based on Zen and Taoism. Therefore, each training traditionally begins with a short meditation (mokusō), which expresses the peaceful purpose of the exercises. Also, each karate practice and exercise or kata begins and ends with a greeting as an expression of respect.

Typical of karate

  • sporting (ethical) attitude
  • The manner of a technique and its execution in order to arrive at a score
  • Target regions for techniques
  • welcome ceremony

Hierarchy and Greeting

In each dōjō there is a hierarchical distinction between the sensei, the teacher, as well as the senpai, the advanced student, and the kohai, the novice. A senpai has roughly the role of an older sibling to guide the kohai and look after its well-being. Many basic rules of conduct in karate training concern respect and etiquette in dealings between students and teachers. For example, it is considered disrespectful to walk behind the Master’s back.

At the beginning of the training, a greeting rite (Rei) is celebrated together. Here students and masters bow to each other and to the old masters and ancestors, represented by the shōmen of the dōjō.

During the welcoming ceremony, there are a number of unwritten rules that precisely prescribe posture when bowing, standing up and sitting down, breathing and various sequences of movements. This ceremony can differ slightly from dōjō to dōjō.

Dōjō etiquette

In many dōjōs it is customary to greet those present with a short bow before entering and leaving the hall. Often the shōmen of the dōjō, which may be an image of a master, the rule book, or a Japanese character, is also greeted with another bow upon entering and exiting.

The dōjō etiquette serves the smooth, injury-free and disciplined course of the karate training and also emphasizes the essence of the karate philosophy:

  • be ambitious and committed
  • greetings are given when entering and leaving the dōjō
  • No shoes are worn in the dōjō
  • the right greeting at the right time, standing or kneeling
  • the right way to deal with each other: patience, respect, appreciation, consideration
  • clothing should be neat and tidy
  • your own body should be clean and well-groomed
  • Don’t “step out of line” without being asked or simply join them, for example if you’re late
  • leave the dōjō during training only after consultation
  • no speaking during training
  • Eating and drinking are not allowed in the dōjō
  • Jewelry and watches are not allowed during training
  • practice what the trainer said, not what you like

Karate training

Karate training involves training the mind, character and attitude, a code for daily life. A karateka should develop into a peaceful person and not be out for arguments.

The karate training builds on the kihon, the kumite and the kata as the basic pillars.

Kihon

Kihon stands for foundation, basis or foundation of ability. The individual techniques are repeated quickly or slowly, powerfully or loosely. Each movement sequence is broken down into its components in order to find an ideal line of movement. This sequence of movements should be internalized and then recalled as a reflex.

Kumite

Kumite, literally “joined hands”, stands for practicing or fighting with one or more opponents. There are various forms of kumite, from a single, agreed-upon, repeated technique to free combat.
When defending, the arms are mainly used for blocking techniques. Throws, levers, hard and soft block movements or dodges are usually combined with stepping and gliding movements.

Kata

The repetition of the movements of a kata can also be considered as a form of meditation. Physically strenuous, concentrated and dynamic movements strengthen the energy of the body (Ki), which expresses consciousness and the ability to coordinate and react, should be strengthened by. A kata requires concentration and also the right attitude,

Karate Competition Rules

Karate tournaments involve both kumite and kata techniques. In a free fight, there are particularly strict rules because of the risk of injury. Therefore, a limited repertoire of techniques is used in competition. Mouth guards, chest or groin guards, fist and foot guards and shin guards are used in tournament fights.

Qualified karatekas can take part in the World Games, which take place every four years and are equivalent to the Olympic Games. Karate will be an Olympic discipline for the first time at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Here own competition rules determine the behavior in karate competitions. On the one hand it is about the sporting comparison, on the other hand a competition also represents the essence of karate for the outside world. The set of rules offers a system of comparability and measurability and at the same time protects the athletes from injuries.

Competition rules determined, for example

  • combat flow
  • competition time
  • permitted technique repertoire and forbidden techniques
  • Conduct/appearance on and around the contest area
  • Evaluation system and basis of evaluation
  • Prohibited Behavior
  • warnings / penalties
  • dealing with injuries
  • Reporting and handling protests
  • combat rating
  • Occupation and tasks of the judges (and other people such as timekeepers)
  • Rights and obligations of actors
  • Dimensions and design of the fighting area
  • Regulations on clothing and protective equipment
  • hygiene regulations
  • Competition organization and general conditions
  • Dealing with advertising on clothing / in the area of ​​​​the fighting area

How old was ralph Macchio in karate kid?

Trivia (186) Ralph Macchio was 22 during filming. Some of the cast did not believe him when they asked about his age.

Where to watch karate kid?

The Karate Kid, a drama movie starring Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita, and Elisabeth Shue is available to stream now. Watch it on Paramount Plus, Prime Video, Vudu, ROW8, Apple TV or Redbox.

Where did karate originate?

Japan officially recognized karate as a martial art only 86 years ago. And its origins are not in mainland Japan at all: It was born in the archipelago of Okinawa, a long-independent kingdom whose culture was heavily influenced by China and which maintains its own identity today.

What is a karate uniform called?

The Karate uniform is called a Gi (pronounced ghee). Traditionalists will argue that the correct term is Dogi or Keikogi, depending on your point of view.

What does karate mean?

The word karate is a combination of two kanji (Chinese characters): kara, meaning empty, and te, meaning hand; thus, karate means “empty hand.” Adding the suffix “-dō” (pronounced “daw”), meaning “the way/path,” karate-dō, implies karate as a total way of life that goes well beyond the self-defense applications.

Where is karate from?

Karate evolved in East Asia over a period of centuries, becoming systematized in Okinawa in the 17th century, probably by people forbidden to carry weapons. It was imported into Japan in the 1920s. Several schools and systems developed, each favouring somewhat different techniques and training methods.

How to tie a karate belt

What do you call a pig that does karate?

A Pork Chop!

How long does it take to get a black belt in karate?

The student’s commitment is evaluated as well as the standards of the issuing martial arts school. It takes five years of dedicated training to acquire the wisdom and spiritual growth necessary to advance to a black belt.

Is karate kid on NetFlix?

When a bullied teen befriends an unassuming martial arts master, he’ll learn life lessons — and the right moves — to beat back his merciless rivals. Watch all you want. Ralph Macchio, Pat Morita and Elisabeth Shue star in this 1984 martial arts drama that kicked off the iconic franchise.

Who taught game show host bob barker tang soo do karate?

In fact, the 71-year-old game show host is a karate expert. He trained for eight years with Chuck Norris.

How to unlock Chao karate

Chao Karate is an event in which Chao can compete. This event can be accessed by going to the Neutral Garden in Sonic Adventure 2: Battle. By going through a tunnel in the Garden, the player can access the Chao Stadium.

Will there be a karate kid 2 with jaden smith?

Karate Kid 2 is currently in pre-production as producers pick a new director. It has been about four years since Jaden Smith starred in The Karate Kid reboot and producers are looking forward to a producing a sequel.

How to get sharkman karate in blox fruits

In order to purchase Sharkman Karate, the player needs to have a Water Key in their inventory. The Water Key is a drop from the Tide Keeper. It is possible to give Daigrock the Water Key first, and purchase it later. This will save over rejoins.

Did pat morita know karate?

Even though Pat Morita’s character “Mr. Miyagi” was a karate master, he actually didn’t know any karate in real life at all. Due to delayed releases, Morita continued appearing in films until 2014, nine years after his death.

How to get sharkman karate

In order to purchase Sharkman Karate, the player needs to have a Water Key in their inventory. The Water Key is a drop from the Tide Keeper. It is possible to give Daigrock the Water Key first, and purchase it later. This will save over rejoins.

Where was karate kid 2 filmed?

Although set in Okinawa, the film was actually shot in Oahu, Hawaii. The island was chosen because of its similar climate to Japan, its large Okinawan population and the convenience of shooting on US soil. Work on The Karate Kid Part II (1986) started ten days after the release of The Karate Kid (1984).

What style of karate is cobra kai?

Cobra Kai Karate is it’s own style derived from Shotokan and Tang Soo Do. It uses lot’s of side kicks, knee kicks, round house kicks, and Sweeps in combination with straight punches, backfists, and chops. Cobra Kai is a derivative of American Tang Soo Do, popularized by Karate Champion Chuck Norris.

Taekwondo or Tae-Kwon-Do or Taekwon-Do is a Korean martial art practiced as a martial art in this country. The three syllables describe the foot technique (tae), the hand technique (kwon) and the way (do) in the sense of method or goal striving. The word taekwondo can therefore be translated as “the way of foot and fist fighting” or “the way of foot and fist”. There are differences to other Asian martial arts. Taekwondo relies on speed and dynamics and foot techniques dominate.

Taekwondo evolved from Japanese karate after 1945, right after the end of Japanese rule in Korea. Techniques and forms are therefore similar to karate technique. The name Taekwondo was first used in 1955. Taekwondo substyles later developed: ITF Traditional, ITF Reformed, and WT. They differ in form (Hyeong, Tul and Pumsae) and in athletic combat. In the Olympic competition system there is a ban on hitting your head with your fist.

Taekwondo has developed from a Korean national sport into a modern competitive sport and has spread throughout the world. For a Taekwondo training one has to join one of the many associations. There are international competitions and this WT-style sport has also been an Olympic discipline since 2000. An estimated 40 million people worldwide train in this dynamic full-contact competitive sport.

Equipment

The combat suit called Dobok consists of a kind of jacket (Sang-I), trousers (Hang-I) and belt (Ty). The material is lightweight, bleached white and durable fabric. The suit allows all movements and is also tear-resistant. This suit is also the only clothing, the feet remain unclothed. Any form of jewelry (rings, watches, earrings) must also be removed during training due to the risk of injury.

Protective equipment is permitted in WT competitions, as it is a full-contact fight: soft helmet, protective vest, mouth guard, groin guard, hand guards, forearm and shin guards and, depending on the age group, also with instep guards.

The jacket top should cover the buttocks, the sleeves should cover half the forearm up to the wrists at the most. Black border and black lapels are only allowed for dan holders. During competitions, the top is usually closed and pulled over the head.

The pants are wide, reaching half the calf and worked in such a way that a lateral split is possible.

A training suit is also permitted for a trial session. However, when you join an association, you have to acquire a dobok, already as a symbol of unity. The color white also has a symbolic character, like a blank sheet of paper, completely empty. Taekwondo students should absorb knowledge and skills, process them and then successfully put them into practice.

Belt and belt system

Taekwondo belts mainly serve a practical purpose, to hold the jacket together. Wearing it three finger widths below the navel also points to the center of the life force Chi in Asian philosophy. Another practical purpose, concentration of power, is similar to the power belt used in weightlifting. This is also worn three finger widths below the navel. The colors of the belt also provide information about the rank or the level of training and knowledge. However, this belt system has only been used in judo since the 19th century.

When Taekwondo started, there were only four belt colors, corresponding to the Korean flag: white, blue, red and black, the colors of the Korean flag. Meanwhile there are also yellow, green and brown.

The belt grades are divided into student class (Kup) and master class, Dan or Poom. The classification of the classes varies depending on the association.

The meaning of the belt colors

  • The white belt is worn by beginners
  • The white and yellow belt is a transition.
  • The yellow belt stands for fertile soil on which knowledge and ability should thrive.
  • The yellow-green belt is a transition.
  • The green belt symbolizes the first sprouts and fruits, signs that something is maturing in the student.
  • The green-blue belt is a transition.
  • The blue belt stands for the sky and thus symbolically for a limit and encouragement to strive for and achieve higher things.
  • The blue-red belt is a transition.
  • The red belt represents the sun, which already has great power, so the student is about to become a master. Some schools use the brown belt here instead.
  • The red-black belt is a transition.
  • Black is the color of the masters and the “black belt” is reserved for them only. Only the dan bearers are also allowed to wear doboks with a black lapel.

Taekwondo training

Taekwondo does not only include physical training units and conscious exercise of the movement sequences. There is also a philosophy behind this, summarized as the so-called “Principles of Taekwondo”:

  • Ye-Ui, the courtesy
  • Yom Chi, the integrity
  • In-Nae, the perseverance, the patience
  • Guk-Gi, the self-discipline
  • Beakjul-bool-gul, the indomitable

All Taekwondo students should feel committed to the following oath:

  • I undertake to abide by the principles of Taekwondo
  • I pledge to respect my coach and all superiors
  • I pledge never to abuse Taekwondo
  • I pledge to work for freedom and justice
  • I am committed to helping create a more peaceful world

The theory of power

The Taekwondo technique uses certain physical laws, the so-called “theory of strength”. This consists of:

  • Concentration: Allowing the entire force to act on the smallest possible area at the precise moment of the blow. Large area = small force effect, small area = large force effect.
  • Reaction force: Opponent’s force plus own force = force acting on the opponent.
  • Balance: Attack becomes more effective and defense becomes more stable when the body is in balance.
  • Breathing control: Your own impact and protection of your own body increase by tensing the abdominal muscles (exhaling and pressing) at the moment of the impact.
  • Speed: The greater the speed, the greater the effective force.
  • Mass: The greater the mass involved in the punch (hip and entire body, not just the punching or kicking part), the greater the effective force.

Training exercises

The training exercises and the stages of progress in Taekwondo are derived from the philosophies and physical laws mentioned.

  • Elementary school (Gibon Yeonseup): Practicing individual movements and techniques by repeating them several times, without opponents.
  • Form run (Teul, Hyeong, Pumsae (Taegeuk/Palgue)): fixed techniques are performed in a given order.
  • One Step Combat (Hanbon Gyeorugi, Ilbo Matsogi, Ilbo Daeryeon): A practice combat with a fixed sequence of techniques against an opponent. In addition to the one-step fight, there are also two- and three-step fights (ibo and sambo matsogi, ibo and sambo daeryeon); they are of secondary importance.
  • Break Test (Gyeokpa): Destroying wooden boards, bricks or other materials using Taekwondo techniques.
  • Free Combat (Daeryeon, Matsogi, or Gyeorugi): Free practice combat against an opponent, often without touching it.
  • Competition (Chayu Matsogi): Light, semi or full contact combat against an opponent.
  • Self-Defense (Hosinsul): Self-defense against one or more unarmed or armed opponents.
  • Gymnastics (Dosu Dallyon)
  • Theory (Ilon)

The Taekwondo Rules

Depending on the style, school or grandmaster, there are different strict rules for training processes or a general code of conduct. The more traditional Taekwondo is practiced, the stricter these rules are. However, many rules apply to the sport of Taekwondo in general.

These are for example:

  • You show up for training on time and in clean sportswear (Dobok). Hands and feet washed, fingernails and toenails short.
  • No eating or drinking during a training session, no chewing gum or a smoke break – all attention is given to the teacher or training partner.
  • No leaving the training area during a training session – go to the toilet beforehand or check out with the teacher. Interruptions disrupt the lessons and when the body cools down again, the risk of injury increases.
  • Before training, the students line up in front of the master in a fixed order according to their rank, the highest always in front on the right.
  • The training begins when the teacher gives the order to line up. Then the first student on the right front greets the coach in Korean. The group then bows to the teacher and the teacher to the group.
    No chatting or laughing out loud is allowed during training. The teacher’s commands must be able to be heard at all times and must also be obeyed.
  • Only the teacher or high ranks are allowed to teach or correct techniques to other students. Because the techniques have to be learned absolutely correctly. This applies in particular to the shape run, since otherwise incorrect movement sequences can spread.
  • Attacks against each other, breaking tests, exercises with weapons (e.g. in self-defence) or other difficult exercises may only be carried out with the express permission of the teacher and under his supervision. Otherwise the risk of injury is too great.
  • If the teacher orders the exercise to be aborted (command Geuman or Baro or Gallyeo), all exercises must be stopped immediately.

The bow

Since bows, respect and the preservation of form are a matter of course in everyday life in Asia, there are also certain formal rules in Taekwondo.

The bow expresses respect for the teacher and the practice partner and serves for collection and concentration. It shows that you are focused on the task at hand. Concentration enables complex movement sequences and ensures that the partner is not accidentally injured.

The bow is usually prepared with the command cha-ryeot (attention!). The feet are positioned side by side in Moa Seogi, fists on the outstretched arm slightly beside the body. Look at the person opposite. With the command Gyeong-nye (greet, bow), the upper body bends forward at a right angle, the arms with the fists are also slightly bent.

A bow ensues

  • when entering and leaving the practice room
  • at the beginning and end of the training session
  • before and after partner exercises
  • before and after a fracture test (e.g. of a wooden board)

A WT version of this gesture allows the hands to be placed on the hips and remain there while the body bends. Schools can choose what bowing technique they expect.

Competition Rules

A taekwondo competition or free fight always takes place on a defined field. A judge directs the competition while several judges evaluate it. The fight lasts a few minutes, during which the participants try to hit the opponent in full contact using Taekwondo techniques.

Full contact means foot techniques to the body and head. Hand techniques to the head are not allowed due to the increased risk of injury, only fist techniques to the torso. Deep foot techniques on the legs are prohibited. Points are awarded depending on the part of the body hit: Torso two points, head 3 points. An additional point is given for turning techniques, points are deducted as punishment for unsportsmanlike conduct. A competition can also be marked by a KO. be decided.

At Olympic Games there are three rounds of two minutes each with a one minute rest. Olympic competitions take place in four of the usual eight weight classes for men and women. The international WT competition rules apply and the competitors wear the prescribed protective equipment (head protection, shin and elbow pads, groin guard, mouthguard, breastplate).
Military World Championships (CISM) in full contact competition (WT) also take place regularly.

In free fights, light or semi-contact usually applies and the correct and aesthetic execution of the technique(s) is rated more than the hits. Hand and foot protection is allowed. Foot techniques in all variants and combinations are combined with real fist fighting techniques, including punching techniques to the head.

In addition to the free fight, form tournaments are also held. The traditional Hyeong form means: no contact or only light contact, no protection. With a few potentially very dangerous exceptions (e.g. edge of hand against the neck), all regular Taekwondo techniques are allowed. However, you may not touch the opponent at all or only slightly.

How to tie a taekwondo belt

What does taekwondo mean?

“Tae” means “foot,” “leg,” or “to step on”; “Kwon” means “fist,” or “fight”; and “Do” means the “way” or “discipline.” If we put these three parts together, we can see two important concepts behind “Tae Kwon Do”.

Is taekwondo a sport?

Taekwondo – a martial art of Korean origin – became an Olympic sport at the Summer Olympic Games in Sydney – Australia in 2000. In the combat sports called martial arts, Taekwondo joined judo which was first included in the Summer Olympic Games at the 1964 Games in Tokyo, Japan.

Where is taekwondo practiced?

Taekwondo made its debut as a demonstration Olympic sport at the 1988 Seoul Games, and became an official medal sport at the 2000 Sydney Games.

Where is taekwondo from?

In Korea, Taekwondo began as a defense martial art called “Subak” or “Taekkyon,” and developed as a way of training body and mind in the ancient kingdom of Koguryo, under the name of “Sunbae.” In the Shilla period, it had become the backbone of Hwarangdo that aimed at producing leaders of the country.

Is taekwondo effective?

Without a doubt, Taekwondo is one of the most effective fighting disciplines in the world. It’s always fascinating to… In modern MMA, fast kicks have become very important during the standup fight.

When did taekwondo begin?

Taekwondo was developed during the 1940s and 1950s by various Korean martial artists as a blend of the indigenous Korean fighting styles of taekkyeon, gwonbeop, and subak, with influence from foreign martial arts, such as karate and Chinese martial arts.

In order to play Brennball correctly, you absolutely need the Brennball rules. We have summarized these for you and explained them in detail so that there are no misunderstandings during the game.

History of the Brennball

Brennball comes from Scandinavia and is even a professional sport in Sweden. Every year, several hundred teams take part in the so-called Brännbollscupen in Umeå. In Finland, the game variant called pesäpallo is considered the Finnish national sport, there is also a national championship with its own league. In Denmark this game is known as rundbold (round ball), in Norway as slåball (hit ball), in Switzerland as mat ball, mat run or balle brûlée.

Brennball is used in Germany and Austria as a throwing, catching and running game, especially in physical education. However, for years, competitions based on the Swedish model have been held in Würzburg, Umeå’s twin town (International Würzburg Burning Ball Tournament).

Brennball mostly uses a volleyball that is thrown and like baseball there are “bases”. In some variants, the ball is not thrown but hit with a bat.

The Brennball Rules

You play Brennball with two teams, which can consist of any number of people. According to the Brennball rules, the playing field must be a delimited area such as a sports field or a hall. So-called “bases” must be marked at the edge of the playing field, mostly sports mats are used for this. A volleyball is usually used as a game ball, but you can also use other balls or objects to throw.

One team spreads out in the field, the other outside the field, at the edge of which there are a number of “bases” (usually sports mats or something similar). One team spreads out in the infield, the other waits outside the field.

Only at the tournaments there are certain dress codes, for example rules for protective clothing when using racquets. Otherwise, the usual training clothes for school sports are sufficient.

Gameplay

The game begins with a player from one team throwing the ball into the infield and running. The player’s goal is to run over as many mats as possible. At the same time, the opposing team tries to get the ball to the target – usually a vessel at the starting point – as quickly as possible. If they manage to place the ball while the runner is not touching either mat, that player is considered “burned.” This means that this player has to go back to the starting point, or in other game variants he is even completely eliminated from the game.

However, if the player manages to touch a mat while the ball lands in the jar, he can use that base as a starting point for the next run. He can start running towards the target mat again when it is his teammates’ turn to throw. If he can reach the target mat, his team gets a point.

Home run

Some variants also use a home run rule. Here, the team whose thrower can complete a whole round after the throw gets more than just one point. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.

Teams switch roles either after a set amount of time or when a certain number of players are “burned”. You also have to swap if a team can no longer muster a thrower because everyone is either on mats or “burned”.

More variants

Some variants limit the number of players on a mat to three in the Brennball rules. If another arrives, one of the players on the mat is automatically considered “burned”, either the newcomer or the player who arrived first on that mat.

There are many other variations on the rules of the game, such as the size of the field or the type of ball. In Sweden, the variant brännboll is played with wooden racquets and a tennis ball.

International Wurzburg Brennball tournament

The Brennball rules of the International Würzburg Brennball Tournament specify a field of 20 x 28 meters and a playing time of 2 x 12 minutes. If there is time left when the last ball is played, the batting side may field a very last batsman.

Teams are limited to a maximum of 10 and should be as evenly mixed as possible (at least three of each gender). Eight players are on the field and substitutions may be made after consultation with the referee.

Clothes, rackets, and balls

The allowed racquets are

Heavy rackets with a weight of about 510 grams and a length of 70 centimeters with a green colored face
light racket with a weight of about 380 grams and a length of 70 centimeters with a blue face.
Bringing your own bats to the game is prohibited.
Another rule is that the thugs are not allowed to use gloves.

The balls used are tennis balls, as clothing, ordinary training clothes meet the regulations. There is usually no special protective clothing.

Invalid shots under Brennball rules

There are a maximum of two attempts for the punches if the first punch fails.
An invalid shot is when

the batsman’s hand is not in the racquet loop
the batsman’s feet are not on the batting mat
or the ball

ball is not hit
hit above head height
falls to the ground in front of the pop line
hitting the ground outside of the strike sector
is caught
The batsman must bat at the referee’s request, otherwise it is considered a time game. A batsman may, but need not, wait for a burned player to re-enter the game.

At the start of a half and after a burnout, two people are allowed to go straight to the first corner without batting. However, no field player may be in the area between the popping line and the hitting mat during the shot.

Burned Players

A player is considered fired when he

starts too early
abbreviates
has not crossed the center line of the base marker with the front of the torso
Burned players return to the first corner. You must be standing on the burn mat when the ball is hit. However, as long as the ball is in play, the burner is free to move around the field.

Brennball Rules: Scoring

The batting side gets 1 point for each player in goal and 6 points for a home run.

The fielding side scores 1 point each for firing or catching the ball straight out of the air. A burned player must go to the first corner. There are 5 points for burning out the batting team. In the event of a burnout, all players must return to the batting ground.
If there is a tie at the end, the lot decides according to the Brennball rules.