The Real Science of Sport Podcast WINTER OLYMPIC SPECIAL: An Insiders Guide to Cross Country Skiing and Biathlon
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Feb 4, 2026 Oyvind Sandbakk, professor in neuromedicine and movement science and former World Cup skier, explains the tech and physiology behind cross-country skiing and biathlon. He breaks down waxing and ski choice, classic versus skate technique, VO2max testing and power limits, plus how shooting rhythm, breathing and penalties shape biathlon tactics. He also previews what to watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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Versatility Beats Narrow Specialization
- Most top skiers now handle both classic and skating; specialization has reduced.
- World Cup and Olympic formats incentivize all‑round ability across techniques.
Huge Event Range, Same Core Traits
- Sprint and marathon demands overlap: sprinters need endurance to repeat heats, distance racers need tactical bursts.
- Skiing economy and technique widen performance differences more than in running.
Biathlon Is Skiing Plus Precision
- Biathletes are elite skiers who add fine motor and cognitive control for shooting.
- Shooting explains roughly 25–35% of race variance, so accuracy is decisive.