The purpose of this study is to clarify the factors for shortening lap times in the short track speed skating. Eight male skaters skated three laps at maximum effort, and the second half of the second lap having the minimum lap time was extracted for analysis. Both straight and curve sections were divided into the first and second parts which were defined as S3, C3, C4, and S4 in the order of skating, respectively, using the track markers set on the track and the cushion. From C3 to S4, skaters performed a crossing motion, which was the push-off movement with crossing their legs. In addition, a carrying motion, in which the right leg is held deeply flexed in the middle of the crossing motion and attempts to change direction boldly, was used in the curve sections. Parameters were the lap time, section speed calculated by the length and time of each section, time and percentage of the carrying motion (ToC and PoC) during the curve, change of section speed from S3 to C3 and C4 to S4, and left and right stroke frequency after the carrying motion. The results were as follows: 1) The section speed significantly increased from C4 to S4 and significantly decreased from S3 to C3. 2) The skaters who skated at a shorter lap time tended to have a higher section speed in the curve and the former part of the straight section with the crossing and carrying motion. 3) There were significant negative relationships among lap time, section speed from C3 to S4. There was a positive relationship between lap time and PoC. To shorten the lap time, it would be important to acquire a higher speed in the curve and S4 using the crossing and carrying motion.
https://ror.org/00ntfnx83 
