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Cross-country (c.c.) skiing is a complex sport discipline from both physiological and biomechanical perspectives, with varying course topographies that require different proportions of the involved sub-techniques to be utilised. A relatively new event in c.c. skiing is the sprint race, involving four separate heats, each lasting 2-4 min, with diverse demands from distance races associated with longer durations. Therefore, the overall aim of the current thesis has been to examine the biomechanical and physiological factors associated with sprint c.c. skiing performance through novel measurements conducted both in the field (Studies I-III) and the laboratory (Studies IV and V).
In Study I sprint skiing velocities and sub-techniques were analysed with a differential global navigation satellite system in combination with video recording. In Studies II and III the effects of an increasing velocity (moderate, high and maximal) on the biomechanics of uphill classical skiing with the diagonal stride (DS) (Study II) and herringbone (HB) (Study III) sub-techniques were examined.
In Study I the skiers completed the 1,425 m (2 x 712 m) sprint time trial (STT) in 207 s, at an average velocity of 24.8 km/h, with multiple technique transitions (range: 21-34) between skiing techniques (i.e., the different gears [G2-7]). A pacing strategy involving a fast start followed by a gradual slowing down (i.e., positive pacing) was employed as indicated by the 2.9% faster first than second lap. The slower second lap was primarily related to a slower (12.9%) uphill velocity with a shift from G3 towards a greater use of G2. The maximal oxygen uptake ( O2max) was related to the ability to maintain uphill skiing velocity and the fastest skiers used G3 to a greater extent than G2. In addition, maximal speed over short distances (50 and 20 m) with the G3 and double poling (DP) sub-techniques exerted an important impact on STT performance.
Study II demonstrated that during uphill skiing (7.5°) with DS, skiers increased cycle rate and cycle length from moderate to high velocity, while cycle rate increased and cycle length decreased at maximal velocity. Absolute poling, gliding and kick times became gradually shorter with an elevated velocity. The rate of pole and leg force development increased with elevated velocity and the development of leg force in the normal direction was substantially faster during skiing on snow than previous findings for roller skiing, although the peak force was similar in both cases. The fastest skiers applied greater peak leg forces over shorter durations.
Study III revealed that when employing the HB technique on a steep uphill slope (15°), the skiers positioned their skis laterally ("V" between 25 to 30°) and planted their poles at a slight lateral angle (8 to 12°), with most of the propulsive force being exerted on the inside forefoot. Of the total propulsive force, 77% was generated by the legs. The cycle rate increased across all three velocities (from 1.20 to 1.60 Hz), while cycle length only increased from moderate to high velocity (from 2.0 to 2.3 m). Finally, the magnitude and rate of leg force generation are important determinants of both DS and HB skiing performance, although the rate is more important in connection with DS, since this sub-technique involves gliding.
In Studies IV and V skiers performed pre-tests for determination of gross efficiency (GE), O2max, and Vmax on a treadmill. The main performance test involved four self-paced STTs on a treadmill over a 1,300-m simulated course including three flat (1°) DP sections interspersed with two uphill (7°) DS sections.
The modified GE method for estimating anaerobic energy production during skiing on varying terrain employed in Study IV revealed that the relative aerobic and anaerobic energy contributions were 82% and 18%, respectively, during the 232 s of skiing, with an accumulated oxygen (O2) deficit of 45 mL/kg. The STT performance time was largely explained by the GE (53%), followed by O2 (30%) and O2 deficit (15%). Therefore, training strategies designed to reduce energetic cost and improve GE should be examined in greater detail.
In Study V metabolic responses and pacing strategies during the four successive STTs were investigated. The first and the last trials were the fastest (both 228 s) and were associated with both a substantially larger and a more rapid anaerobic energy supply, while the average O2 during all four STTs was similar. The individual variation in STT performance was explained primarily (69%) by the variation in O2 deficit. Furthermore, positive pacing was employed throughout all the STTs, but the pacing strategy became more even after the first trial. In addition, considerably higher (~ 30%) metabolic rates were generated on the uphill than on the flat sections of the course, reflecting an irregular production of anaerobic energy. Altogether, a fast start appears important for STT performance and high work rates during uphill skiing may exert a more pronounced impact on skiing performance outdoors, due to the reduction in velocity fluctuations and thereby overall air-drag.
To improve current understanding of energy contributions and determinants of sprint-skiing performance, 11 well-trained male cross-country skiers were tested in the laboratory for VO2max , submaximal gross efficiency (GE), maximal roller skiing velocity, and sprint time-trial (STT) performance. The STT was repeated four times on a 1300-m simulated sprint course including three flat (1°) double poling (DP) sections interspersed with two uphill (7°) diagonal stride (DS) sections. Treadmill velocity and VO2 were monitored continuously during the four STTs and data were averaged. Supramaximal GE during the STT was predicted from the submaximal relationships for GE against velocity and incline, allowing computation of metabolic rate and O2 deficit. The skiers completed the STT in 232 ± 10 s (distributed as 55 ± 3% DP and 45 ± 3% DS) with a mean power output of 324 ± 26 W. The anaerobic energy contribution was 18 ± 5%, with an accumulated O2 deficit of 45 ± 13 mL/kg. Block-wise multiple regression revealed that VO2 , O2 deficit, and GE explained 30%, 15%, and 53% of the variance in STT time, respectively (all P < 0.05). This novel GE-based method of estimating the O2 deficit in simulated sprint-skiing has demonstrated an anaerobic energy contribution of 18%, with GE being the strongest predictor of performance.
Purpose: This study aimed to compare performance and pacing strategies between elite male and female cross-country skiers during a sprint competition on snow using the skating technique.
Methods: Twenty male and 14 female skiers completed an individual time-trial prolog (TT) and three head-to-head races (quarter, semi, and final) on the same 1,572-m course, which was divided into flat, uphill and downhill sections. Section-specific speeds, choice of sub-technique (i.e., gear), cycle characteristics, heart rate and post-race blood lactate concentration were monitored. Power output was estimated for the different sections during the TT, while metabolic demand was estimated for two uphill camera sections and the final 50-m flat camera section.
Results: Average speed during the four races was ∼12.5% faster for males than females (P < 0.001), while speeds on the flat, uphill and downhill sections were ∼11, 18, and 9% faster for the males than females (all P< 0.001 for terrain, sex, and interaction). Differences in uphill TT speed between the sexes were associated with different sub-technique preferences, with males using a higher gear more frequently than females (P < 0.05). The estimated metabolic demand relative to maximal oxygen uptake (V˙" role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V˙V˙O2max) was similar for both sexes during the two uphill camera sections (∼129% of V˙" role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V˙V˙O2max) and for the final 50-m flat section (∼153% of V˙" role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V˙V˙O2max). Relative power output during the TT was 18% higher for males compared to females (P < 0.001) and was highly variable along the course for both sexes (coefficient of variation [CV] between sections 4–9 was 53%), while the same variation in heart rate was low (CV was ∼3%). The head-to-head races were ∼2.4% faster than the TT for both sexes and most race winners (61%) were positioned first already after 30 m of the race. No sex differences were observed during any of the races for heart rate or blood lactate concentration.
Conclusion: The average sex difference in sprint skiing performance was ∼12.5%, with varying differences for terrain-specific speeds. Moreover, females skied relatively slower uphill (at a lower gear) and thereby elicited more variation in their speed profiles compared to the males.
INTRODUCTION: At present, knowledge regarding energy contributions and pacing strategies during successive sprint time-trials (STTs) in cross-country (XC) skiing is limited and, therefore, the current study was designed to examine these parameters. The results shown have recently been published elsewhere (Andersson et al., 2016).METHODS: Ten well-trained male XC skiers performed four self-paced 1300-m STTs on a treadmill, separated by 45 min of recovery. The simulated STT course was divided into three flat (1°) sections (S1, S3 and S5) involving the double poling (DP) sub-technique interspersed with two uphill (7°) sections (S2 and S4) involving the diagonal stride (DS) sub-technique. Treadmill velocity and VO2 were monitored continuously and technique-specific gross efficiency (based on submaximal pre-tests) was used to estimate anaerobic energy production.RESULTS & DISCUSSION: The average STT performance time was 229 ± 9 s and the aerobic energy contribution was 82 ± 5%. A positive pacing strategy was used during all STTs, with 3-9% more time spent on the second half of the course (P < 0.05). In addition, the pacing strategy was regulated to the terrain, with substantially higher (~30%) metabolic rates, due to primarily higher anaerobic energy production, for uphill compared with flat skiing (P < 0.05). The individually fastest STT was more aggressively paced compared to the slowest STT (P < 0.05), which resulted in a higher O2 deficit rate (13 ± 4 versus 11 ± 4 mL/kg/min, P < 0.05), while the VO2 was similar (both 52 ± 3 mL/kg/min). These findings emphasise the importance of a fast start. The within-athlete coefficient of variation (CV) in performance time, VO2 and O2 deficit were 1.3 ± 0.4%, 1.4 ± 0.9% and 11.2 ± 4.9%, respectively, with the CV in O2 deficit explaining 69% of the CV in performance. The pacing strategies were highly consistent, with an average CV in speed of 3.4%.CONCLUSION: The fastest STT was characterized by more aggressive pacing and a greater anaerobic energy production. Although the individual performance time during the four STTs was highly consistent, the small within-athlete variability in performance was related to variations in anaerobic energy production.
PURPOSE: To examine the metabolic responses and pacing strategies during the performance of successive sprint time trials (STTs) in cross-country skiing. METHODS: Ten well-trained male cross-country skiers performed four self-paced 1300-m STTs on a treadmill, each separated by 45 min of recovery. The simulated STT course was divided into three flat (1°) sections (S1, S3 and S5) involving the double poling sub-technique interspersed with two uphill (7°) sections (S2 and S4) involving the diagonal stride sub-technique. Treadmill velocity and V˙O2 were monitored continuously and gross efficiency was used to estimate the anaerobic energy supply. RESULTS: The individual trial-to-trial variability in STT performance time was 1.3%, where variations in O2 deficit and V˙O2 explained 69% (P < 0.05) and 11% (P > 0.05) of the variation in performance. The first and last STTs were equally fast (228 ± 10 s), and ~ 1.3% faster than the second and the third STTs (P < 0.05). These two fastest STTs were associated with a 14% greater O2 deficit (P < 0.05), while the average V˙O2 was similar during all four STTs (86 ± 3% of V˙O2max). Positive pacing was used throughout all STTs, with significantly less time spent on the first than second course half. In addition, metabolic rates were substantially higher (~_30%) for uphill than for flat skiing, indicating that pacing was regulated to the terrain. CONCLUSIONS: The fastest STTs were characterized primarily by a greater anaerobic energy production, which also explained 69% of the individual variation in performance. Moreover, the skiers employed positive pacing and a variable exercise intensity according to the course profile, yielding an irregular distribution of anaerobic energy production.
Purpose: The present study aimed to compare four methods of estimating anaerobic energy production during supramaximal exercise.
Methods: Twenty-one junior cross-country skiers competing at a national and/or international level were tested on a treadmill during uphill (7°) diagonal-stride (DS) roller-skiing. After a 4-minute warm-up, a 4 × 4-min continuous submaximal protocol was performed followed by a 600-m time trial (TT). For the maximal accumulated O2 deficit (MAOD) method the V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2-speed regression relationship was used to estimate the V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 demand during the TT, either including (4+Y, method 1) or excluding (4-Y, method 2) a fixed Y-intercept for baseline V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2. The gross efficiency (GE) method (method 3) involved calculating metabolic rate during the TT by dividing power output by submaximal GE, which was then converted to a V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 demand. An alternative method based on submaximal energy cost (EC, method 4) was also used to estimate V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 demand during the TT.
Results: The GE/EC remained constant across the submaximal stages and the supramaximal TT was performed in 185 ± 24 s. The GE and EC methods produced identical V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 demands and O2 deficits. The V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; word-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 demand was ~3% lower for the 4+Y method compared with the 4-Y and GE/EC methods, with corresponding O2 deficits of 56 ± 10, 62 ± 10, and 63 ± 10 mL·kg−1, respectively (P < 0.05 for 4+Y vs. 4-Y and GE/EC). The mean differences between the estimated O2 deficits were −6 ± 5 mL·kg−1 (4+Y vs. 4-Y, P < 0.05), −7 ± 1 mL·kg−1 (4+Y vs. GE/EC, P < 0.05) and −1 ± 5 mL·kg−1 (4-Y vs. GE/EC), with respective typical errors of 5.3, 1.9, and 6.0%. The mean difference between the O2 deficit estimated with GE/EC based on the average of four submaximal stages compared with the last stage was 1 ± 2 mL·kg−1, with a typical error of 3.2%.
Conclusions: These findings demonstrate a disagreement in the O2 deficits estimated using current methods. In addition, the findings suggest that a valid estimate of the O2 deficit may be possible using data from only one submaximal stage in combination with the GE/EC method.
Two frequently used approaches for estimating anaerobic energy production during supramaximal exercise are the maximal accumulated oxygen (O2) deficit (MAOD) method and the gross efficiency (GE) method (Noordhof et al., 2011). Despite clear computational differences between the two methods, only one direct comparison has been performed (Noordhof et al., 2011). In cross-country roller-skiing, both the MAOD and the GE methods have been employed (Andersson et al., 2016). Therefore, this study aimed to compare the O2 deficits attained with these methods.
Eleven male and ten female cross-country skiers were tested on a treadmill employing uphill (7°) diagonal-stride roller-skiing. After collecting a 1-min baseline VO2, participants performed a 4 × 4-min continuous submaximal protocol (~ 60-90% of VO2max) followed by, a self-paced 600-m time-trial (TT). Speed and VO2 were measured continuously during the TT. For the MAOD method, the linear relationship between treadmill velocity and VO2 during the final 30 seconds of each 4 × 4-min submaximal stage was derived with the baseline VO2 as a Y-intercept included (4+Y) in or excluded (4-Y) from the model. The two regression equations were then used to estimate the VO2 demand during the TT. For the GE method, the metabolic rate during the TT was calculated by taking the average power output divided by the GE (an average of the four submaximal stages) and converted to a VO2 demand.
The VO2 demand was significantly higher for the GE (68.9 ± 8.5 mL/kg/min) and 4-Y (68.4 ± 8.7 mL/kg/min) procedures compared with the 4+Y (64.3 ± 7.6 mL/kg/min) procedure (P < 0.05). The corresponding O2 deficits for the GE, 4-Y and, 4+Y procedures were 63.7 ± 9.7, 62.3 ± 10.4 and, 50.2 ± 9.6 mL/kg, respectively (P < 0.05 for GE and 4-Y vs. 4+Y). The mean difference between the O2 deficits estimated from the 4-Y and GE procedure -1.4 ± 3.9 mL/kg, and between the 4+Y and GE procedures was -13.5 ± 2.5 mL/kg. Corresponding typical errors for the two comparisons were 2.74% and 1.74% while the intra-class correlation coefficients together with linear equations were r = 0.93 (0.99x – 0.8) for [4-Y vs. GE] and r = 0.97 (0.95x - 10.5) for [4+Y vs. GE].
The main finding of the current study was the high agreement between the 4-Y and GE procedures which is in contrast to previous findings of Noordhof et al. (2011). Moreover, the inclusion of a Y-intercept for baseline VO2 resulted in a 20% lower O2 deficit compared to the 4-Y and GE procedures.
Andersson E, Björklund G, Holmberg HC, Ørtenblad N. (2016). Scand J Med Sci Sports. Noordhof DA, Vink AM, de Koning JJ. Foster C. (2011). Int J Sports Med, 32, 422-8
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to compare the pacing strategies, choice of sub-technique (i.e., gear) and overall performance between elite male and female cross-country (XC) skiers during a ski-skating sprint time-trial (TT) on snow.
METHODS: Thirty-four elite XC skiers (20 males and 14 females: age, 23 ± 4 and 21 ± 3 yr; body mass, 76 ± 8 and 64 ± 5 kg; height, 183 ± 7 and 171 ± 5 cm; sprint FIS points, 86 ± 42 and 90 ± 54) performed a 1.6 km TT, which was 56% flat (or undulating), 21% uphill and 22% downhill. The sprint course was measured with a differential global navigation satellite system and divided into four flat, three uphill and two downhill sections. Race time was measured with the EMIT timing system (Emit AS, Oslo, Norway) and one 25-m uphill (4°) section was filmed continuously with a fixed camcorder (50 Hz). All skiers used a similar stone-grind and all skis were glide-waxed similarly. The air temperature was +1°C (fresh snow at ±0°C), relative humidity was 90% and the friction coefficient between ski and snow was estimated to 0.045 (i.e., very slow).
RESULTS: Average speed during the TT was 25 ± 1 and 22 ± 1 km/h (TT time: 227 ± 11 and 254 ± 10 s) for males and females, respectively (P < 0.001, Cohen's d effect size [ES] = 2.6). Average relative power output (PO) was estimated to 3.9 ± 0.3 and 3.3 ± 0.2 W/kg for males and females, respectively (P < 0.001, ES = 2.5). Average heart rate was 95 ± 2% and 96 ± 1% of maximum for males and females (P = 0.51), with a 2-min post-race blood lactate concentration of 10 ± 2 mmol/L for both sexes (P = 0.64). Within-athlete coefficient of variation in speed between sections was 20 ± 2% for males and 24 ± 1% for females (P < 0.001, ES = 2.6). Speeds on the flat, uphill and downhill sections were 26 ± 1, 19 ± 1 and 32 ± 1 km/h for males and 23 ± 1, 16 ± 1 and 30 ± 1 km/h for females (main effects for terrain, sex and interaction, all P < 0.01) corresponding to 9%, 16% and 8% slower speeds on flat, uphill and downhill terrain for females. Speeds relative to the average TT speed were 103 ± 1%, 77 ± 2% and 129 ± 4% for males and 105 ± 1%, 72 ± 2% and 133 ± 2% for females (main effects for terrain, sex and interaction, all P < 0.001). Relative PO on the flat, uphill and downhill sections were estimated to 4.0 ± 0.3, 4.9 ± 0.4 and 1.9 ± 0.2 W/kg for males and 3.5 ± 0.2, 4.0 ± 0.3 and 1.5 ± 0.2 W/kg for females (main effects for terrain, sex and interaction, all P < 0.001). The males were 20% faster than the females on the uphill video section (16 ± 1 versus 13 ± 1 km/h, P < 0.001, ES = 2.6), with 95% of the male skiers and 21% of the female skiers using gear 3 exclusively, and the remaining skiers using gear 2 exclusively or a combination of gears 2 and 3.
CONCLUSION: The present results indicate an overall sex difference in sprint skiing performance of ~12% and reveal differences in terrain-specific pacing as well as gear choice between sexes with females showing a higher overall variation in speed and considerably slower uphill skiing.
Cycle and force characteristics were examined in 11 elite male cross-country skiers using the diagonal stride technique while skiing uphill (7.5 degrees) on snow at moderate (3.5 +/- 0.3m/s), high (4.5 +/- 0.4m/s), and maximal (5.6 +/- 0.6m/s) velocities. Video analysis (50Hz) was combined with plantar (leg) force (100Hz), pole force (1,500Hz), and photocell measurements. Both cycle rate and cycle length increased from moderate to high velocity, while cycle rate increased and cycle length decreased at maximal compared to high velocity. The kick time decreased 26% from moderate to maximal velocity, reaching 0.14s at maximal. The relative kick and gliding times were only altered at maximal velocity, where these were longer and shorter, respectively. The rate of force development increased with higher velocity. At maximal velocity, sprint-specialists were 14% faster than distance-specialists due to greater cycle rate, peak leg force, and rate of leg force development. In conclusion, large peak leg forces were applied rapidly across all velocities and the shorter relative gliding and longer relative kick phases at maximal velocity allow maintenance of kick duration for force generation. These results emphasise the importance of rapid leg force generation in diagonal skiing.
This investigation was designed to analyse the kinematics and kinetics of cross-country skiing at different velocities with the herringbone technique on a steep incline. Eleven elite male cross-country skiers performed this technique at maximal, high, and moderate velocities on a snow-covered 15° incline. They positioned their skis laterally (25 to 30°) with a slight inside tilt and planted their poles laterally (8 to 12°) with most leg thrust force exerted on the inside forefoot. Although 77% of the total propulsive force was generated by the legs, the ratio between propulsive and total force was approximately fourfold higher for the poles. The cycle rate increased with velocity (1.20 to 1.60 Hz), whereas the cycle length increased from moderate up to high velocity, but then remained the same at maximal velocity (2.0 to 2.3 m). In conclusion, with the herringbone technique, the skis were angled laterally without gliding, with the forces distributed mainly on the inside forefoot to enable grip for propulsion. The skiers utilized high cycle rates with major propulsion by the legs, highlighting the importance of high peak and rapid generation of leg forces.
The purpose was to examine skiing velocities, gear choice (G2-7) and cycle rates during a skating sprint time trial (STT) and their relationships to performance, as well as to examine relationships between aerobic power, body composition and maximal skiing velocity versus STT performance. Nine male elite cross-country skiers performed three tests on snow: (1) Maximum velocity test (Vmax) performed using G3 skating, (2) Vmax test performed using double poling (DP) technique and (3) a STT over 1,425 m. Additional measurements of VO2max during roller skiing and body composition using iDXA were made. Differential global navigation satellite system data were used for position and velocity and synchronized with video during STT. The STT encompassed a large velocity range (2.9-12.9 m s-1) and multiple transitions (21-34) between skiing gears. Skiing velocity in the uphill sections was related to gear selection between G2 and G3. STT performance was most strongly correlated to uphill time (r = 0.92, P < 0.05), the percentage use of G2 (r = -0.72, P < 0.05), and DP Vmax (r = -0.71, P < 0.05). The velocity decrease in the uphills from lap 1 to lap 2 was correlated with VO2max (r = -0.78, P < 0.05). Vmax in DP and G3 were related to percent of racing time using G3. In conclusion, the sprint skiing performance was mainly related to uphill performance, greater use of the G3 technique, and higher DP and G3 maximum velocities. Additionally, VO2max was related to the ability to maintain racing velocity in the uphills and lean body mass was related to starting velocity and DP maximal speed.
This study investigated the energy, macronutrient and fluid intakes, as well as hydration status (urine specific gravity; USG), in elite cross-country skiers during a typical day of training (day one) and a sprint skiing competition the following day (day two). Thirty-one (18 male and 13 female) national team skiers recorded their food and fluid intakes and USG was measured on days one and two. In addition, the females completed the Low Energy Availability in Females-Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) to assess their risk of long-term energy deficiency. Energy intake for males was 65+/-9 kcal/kg on day one versus 58+/-9 kcal/kg on day two (P=0.002), and for females was 57+/-10 on day one versus 55+/-5 kcal/kg on day two (P=0.445). Carbohydrate intake recommendations of 10-12 g/kg/day were not met by 89% of males and 92% of females. All males and females had a protein intake above the recommended 1.2-2.0 g/kg on both days, and a post-exercise protein intake above the recommended 0.3 g/kg. Of the females, 31% were classified as being at risk of long-term energy deficiency. In the morning of day one, 50% of males and 46% of females were dehydrated; on day two this was the case for 56% of males and 38% of females. In conclusion, these data suggest that elite cross-country skiers ingested more protein and less carbohydrate than recommended, and one third of the females were considered at risk for long-term energy deficiency. Furthermore, many of the athletes were dehydrated prior to training and competition.
Introduction: Habitual nutritional intakes in cross-country skiers have previously been reported (Fogelholm et al., 1992), however in elite cross-country skiers there is limited knowledge about race-specific nutritional practices, or the prevalence of dehydration and persistent low energy availability (EA). This study aimed to investigate, in the context of a simulated sprint race, energy intake, macronutrient intake, hydration status and the risk of persistent low EA in elite cross-country skiers. Methods: Thirty-two male (n = 18) and female (n = 14) elite Swedish cross-country skiers completed weighed food records the day prior to (day 1) and the day of a simulated sprint race (day 2); the food records were analysed for energy (kcal/kg), macronutrient (g/kg) and fluid intake (L). Urine specific gravity (USG) was also measured on day 1 and day 2. The risk for persistent low EA was assessed in the female skiers using the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q; Melin et al., 2014). Results were analysed using a three-way mixed ANOVA. Statistical significance was set to a level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: Males had a higher energy intake (65±9 kcal/kg) on day 1, (pre-race) compared with day 2 (simulated sprint race; 58±9kcal/kg; p = 0.002). Females consumed 57±10 kcal/kg on day 1, which was similar to their day 2 energy intake (54±6 kcal on day 2; p > 0.05). Males consumed less carbohydrate (8.2±2.3g/kg) on day 1 compared with day 2 (8.9±2.3g/kg) (p = 0.026), as did females, consuming 7.0±1.5g/kg on day 1, and 8.4±1.7g/kg on day 2 (p = 0.003). There were similar fluid intakes across the two days for males (p > 0.05) and females (p > 0.05). Nine of the 18 males and 6 of the 14 females were dehydrated (USG > 1.020) on day 1, and 9 males and 5 females were dehydrated on day 2. Five of the 14 females were classified as being at risk of persistent low EA. Discussion: This study provides an initial insight into nutritional competition habits in elite cross-country skiers. The findings indicate that elite skiers' nutritional intakes are consistent with guidelines, particularly those for endurance athletes' carbohydrate intake for competitive events (Burke et al., 2001). There was however some evidence of persistent low EA and dehydration, suggesting additional considerations that may be relevant to cross-country skiers' nutritional intakes for sprint races.
The purpose was to examine the test-retest reliability of the Rolimeter measurement procedure in the acute time phase, following a substantial knee trauma. In total, 15 participants with acute knee trauma were examined by one single observer at three different time-points with the Rolimeter using a maximum force. The selected time-points were: baseline (0–7 days after the trauma), midpoint (3–4 weeks after the trauma), and endpoint (3–4 weeks after the trauma). The anterior-posterior displacement was recorded where the endpoint evaluation was used as the reference value. The mean anterior laxity scores remained constant over the measurement time-points for both knees, with an anterior laxity that was 2.7 mm higher (on average) in the injured than the noninjured knee (9.5 mm vs. 6.8 mm). The mean difference (i.e., bias) between laxity scores, for the injured knee, measured at endpoint versus baseline was 0.2±1.0 mm and −0.2±1.1 mm when measured at endpoint versus midpoint, with average typical errors of 0.7 and 0.8 mm and intra-class correlations that were very strong (both r=~0.93). For the same comparisons on the noninjured knee, systematic bias was close to zero (0.1±0.3 and −0.1±0.3 mm, respectively), and both the intra-class correlations were almost perfect (r=~0.99). The current study implicates that repeated Rolimeter measurements are relatively reliable for quantifying anterior knee laxity during the acute time-phases following knee trauma. Hence, the Rolimeter, in combination with manual tests, seems to be a valuable tool for identifying anterior cruciate ligament injuries.
Here, we tested the hypothesis that aerobic energy expenditure (AEE) is higher during a simulated 6-km (2 loops of 3-km each) "skiathlon" than during skating only on a treadmill and attempted to link any such increase to biomechanical and neuromuscular responses. Six elite male cross-country skiers performed two pretesting time-trials (TT) to determine their best performances and to choose an appropriate submaximal speed for collection of physiological, biomechanical and neuromuscular data during two experimental sessions ((exp)). Each skier used, in randomized order, either the classical (CL) or skating technique (SK) for the first 3-km loop, followed by transition to the skating technique for the second 3-km loop. Respiratory parameters were recorded continuously. The EMG activity of the triceps brachii (TBr and vastus lateralis (VLa) muscles during isometric contractions performed when the skiers were stationary (i.e., just before the first loop, during the transition, and after the second loop); their corresponding activity during dynamic contractions; and pole and plantar forces during the second loop were recorded. During the second 3-km of the 'IT, skating speed was significantly higher for the SK-SK than CL-SK. During this second loop, AEE was also higher (+1.5%) for CL-SKexp than SK-SKexp, in association with higher VLa EMG activity during both isometric and dynamic contractions, despite no differences in plantar or pole forces, poling times or cycle rates. Although the underlying mechanism remains unclear, during a skiathlon, the transition between the sections of classical skiing and skating alters skating performance (i.e., skiing speed), AEE and neuromuscular function. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The effects of short-term high-intensity exercise on single fiber contractile function in humans are unknown. Therefore, the purposes of this study were: (a) to access the acute effects of repeated high-intensity exercise on human single muscle fiber contractile function; and (b) to examine whether contractile function was affected by alterations in the redox balance. Eleven elite cross-country skiers performed four maximal bouts of 1300m treadmill skiing with 45min recovery. Contractile function of chemically skinned single fibers from triceps brachii was examined before the first and following the fourth sprint with respect to Ca2+ sensitivity and maximal Ca2+-activated force. To investigate the oxidative effects of exercise on single fiber contractile function, a subset of fibers was incubated with dithiothreitol (DTT) before analysis. Ca2+ sensitivity was enhanced by exercise in both MHC I (17%, P<0.05) and MHC II (15%, P<0.05) fibers. This potentiation was not present after incubation of fibers with DTT. Specific force of both MHC I and MHC II fibers was unaffected by exercise. In conclusion, repeated high-intensity exercise increased Ca2+ sensitivity in both MHC I and MHC II fibers. This effect was not observed in a reducing environment indicative of an exercise-induced oxidation of the human contractile apparatus.
Skeletal muscle glycogen is heterogeneous distributed in three separated compartments (intramyofibrillar, intermyofibrillar and subsarcolemmal). Although only constituting 4-15% of the total glycogen volume, the availability of intramyofibrillar glycogen has been shown to be of particular importance to muscle function. The present study was designed to investigate the depletion of these three sub-cellular glycogen compartments during repeated supra-maximal exercise in elite athletes. Ten elite cross-country skiers (age: 25 +/- 4 yrs., VO2 max : 65 +/- 4 ml kg-1 min-1 , mean +/- SD) performed four approximately 4-minute supra-maximal sprint time trials (STT 1-4) with 45 min recovery. The sub-cellular glycogen volumes in m. triceps brachii were quantified from electron microscopy images before and after both STT 1 and STT 4. During STT 1, the depletion of intramyofibrillar glycogen was higher in type I fibres (-52% [-89:-15%]) than type 2 fibres (-15% [-52:22%]) (P = 0.02), while the depletion of intermyofibrillar glycogen (main effect: -19% [-33:0], P = 0.006) and subsarcolemmal glycogen (main effect: -35% [-66:0%], P = 0.03) was similar between fibre types. In contrast, only intermyofibrillar glycogen volume was significantly reduced during STT 4, in both fibre types (main effect: -31% [-50:-11%], P = 0.002). Furthermore, for each of the sub-cellular compartments, the depletion of glycogen during STT 1 was associated with the volumes of glycogen before STT 1. In conclusion, the depletion of spatially distinct glycogen compartments differs during supra-maximal exercise. Furthermore, the depletion changes with repeated exercise and is fibre type-dependent.
This study investigated whether commercially available compression garments (COMP) exerting a moderate level of pressureand/or neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) accelerate recovery following a cross-country sprint skiing competitioncompared with a control group (CON) consisting of active recovery only. Twenty-one senior (12 males, 9 females) and 11junior (6 males, 5 females) Swedish national team skiers performed an outdoor sprint skiing competition involving foursprints lasting ∼3–4 min. Before the competition, skiers were matched by sex and skiing level (senior versus junior) andrandomly assigned to COMP (n = 11), NMES (n = 11) or CON (n = 10). Creatine kinase (CK), urea, countermovementjump (CMJ) height, and perceived muscle pain were measured before and 8, 20, 44 and 68 h after competition. NeitherCOMP nor NMES promoted the recovery of blood biomarkers, CMJ or perceived pain post-competition compared withCON (all P > .05). When grouping all 32 participants, urea and perceived muscle pain increased from baseline, peaking at8 h (standardised mean difference (SMD), [95% confidence intervals (CIs)]): 2.8 [2.3, 3.2]) and 44 h (odds ratio [95%CI]: 3.3 [2.1, 5.1]) post-competition, respectively. Additionally, CMJ was lower than baseline 44 and 68 h postcompetitionin both males and females (P < .05). CK increased from baseline in males, peaking at 44 h (SMD: 1.4 [−0.4,0.9]), but was decreased in females at 20 h post-competition (SMD: −0.8 [−1.4, −0.2]). In conclusion, cross-countrysprint skiing induced symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage peaking 8–44 h post-competition. However, neitherCOMP nor NMES promoted physiological or perceptual recovery compared with CON.
Purpose: To investigate whether compression garments (CG) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) augment post-race recovery compared with a passive control group (CON) following a cross-country sprint skiing competition. Methods: Twenty-one senior (12 males, 9 females) and 11 junior (6 males, 5 females) Swedish national team skiers performed a sprint skiing competition involving four, ~3-4 min sprints. After the race, skiers were matched by sex and skiing level (senior versus junior) and randomly assigned to a CON (n = 10), CG (n = 11) or NMES group (n = 11). Creatine kinase (CK) and urea, countermovement jump height (CMJ) and perceived sleep duration, sleep quality and muscle pain were measured before and 8, 20, 44 and 68 h after the race to assess the efficacy of each recovery intervention. Results: Neither CG nor NMES promoted the recovery of blood biomarkers, perceived wellness nor CMJ post-race compared with the passive control group (all P < 0.05). When grouping all 32 participants, CK, urea and muscle pain increased from pre-race values, peaking 20-44 h post-race (P < 0.05). CMJ was lower than pre-race values 44 and 60 h post-race in males and females (both P < 0.05). Sleep duration increased from pre-race to post-race (P < 0.05), whereas sleep quality was unchanged (P > 0.05). Conclusion: A cross-country sprint skiing competition induced symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage peaking 20-44 h post-race. However, CG and NMES did not augment the recovery of physiological, perceptual or performance parameters compared with a passive control group after the sprint skiing competition.
The aim of this study was to assess potential changes in the performance and cardiorespiratory responses of elite cross-country skiers following transition from the classic (CL) to the skating (SK) technique during a simulated skiathlon. Eight elite male skiers performed two 6 km (2 × 3 km) roller-skiing time trials on a treadmill at racing speed: one starting with the classic and switching to the skating technique (CL1-SK2) and another employing the skating technique throughout (SK1-SK2), with continuous monitoring of gas exchanges, heart rates, and kinematics (video). The overall performance times in the CL1-SK2 (21:12 ± 1:24) and SK1-SK2 (20:48 ± 2:00) trials were similar, and during the second section of each performance times and overall cardiopulmonary responses were also comparable. However, in comparison with SK1-SK2, the CL1-SK2 trial involved significantly higher increases in minute ventilation (VE, 89.8 ± 26.8 vs. 106.8 ± 17.6 L·min-1) and oxygen uptake (VO2; 3.1 ± 0.8 vs 3.5 ±0.5 L·min-1) 2 min after the transition as well as longer time constants for VE, VO2, and heart rate during the first 3 min after the transition. This higher cardiopulmonary exertion was associated with ~3% faster cycle rates. In conclusion, overall performance during the 2 time trials did not differ. The similar performance times during the second sections were achieved with comparable mean cardiopulmonary responses. However, the observation that during the initial 3-min post-transition following classic skiing cardiopulmonary responses and cycle rates were slightly higher supports the conclusion that an initial section of classic skiing exerts an impact on performance during a subsequent section of skate skiing.
Postexercise heart-rate (HR) recovery (HRR) indices have been associated with running and cycling endurance-exercise performance. The current study was designed (1) to test whether such a relationship also exists in the case of cross-country skiing (XCS) and (2) to determine whether the magnitude of any such relationship is related to the intensity of exercise before obtaining HRR indices. Ten elite male cross-country skiers (mean +/- SD; 28.2 +/- 5.4 y, 181 +/- 8 cm, 77.9 +/- 9.4 kg, 69.5 +/- 4.3 mL.min(-1) . kg(-1) maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max]) performed 2 sessions of roller-skiing on a treadmill: a 2 x 3-km time trial and the same 6-km at an imposed submaximal speed followed by a final 800-m time trial. VO2 and HR were monitored continuously, while HRR and blood lactate (BLa) were assessed during 2 min immediately after each 6-km and the 800-m time trial. The 6-km time-trial time was largely negatively correlated with VO2max and BLa. On the contrary, there was no clear correlation between the 800-m time-trial time and VO2, HR, or BLa. In addition, in no case was any clear correlation between any of the HRR indices and performance time or VO2max observed. These findings confirm that XCS performance is largely correlated with VO2max and the ability to tolerate high levels of BLa; however, postexercise HRR showed no clear association with performance. The homogeneity of the group of athletes involved and the contribution of the arms and upper body to the exercise preceding determination of HRR may explain this absence of a relationship.
Aim. Aim of the present study was to investigate performance and kinematics of cross-country skiers during sprint running and bounding on different inclines, in relationship to maximal strength, power and skiing performance. Methods. On day one, the maximal strength of 14 elite skiers was tested using a mid-thigh isometric pull and maximal relative leg power determined using squat and countermovement jumps. Day two involved 15-m maximal sprints and 5-step bounding at 0 degrees, 7.5 degrees and 15 degrees inclines. From video recordings sprint, step, contact and flight times; step length and frequency; total number of sprint steps and average bounding velocity were determined. Skiing performance was assessed using International Ski Federation (FIS) points from the preceding season and compared to strength, power, bounding and sprint performance, and kinematics. Results. On steeper inclines sprint time was higher and bounding distance shorter (both P<0.001), and step frequency during sprinting and bounding, reduced and increased respectively (P<0.001). Isometric maximal strength correlated strongly with bounding distance on the two steeper inclines (r=0.76 and 0.83). Squat and countermovement jump heights correlated moderately with sprint performance at both 7 degrees and 15 degrees, and bounding performance on all three inclines (r=0.55-0.65). The distance bounded uphill correlated moderately with FIS points (r=-0.55 and -0.67). Conclusion. Incline influenced sprinting and bounding performance and kinematics. Maximal leg power is important for both sprinting and bounding uphill, while maximal strength is important for the latter. The skiers with better FIS rankings bounded farther on steeper inclines, suggesting that this capacity is beneficial for cross-country skiing performance.
Introduction Long-distance cross-country skiing (XCS) has gained increased popularity within the past decades. However, research about long-distance XCS is limited; therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the intensity distribution, technique application, and pacing strategies during long-distance XCS racing. Methods Heart rate (HR) and section skiing speeds of 9 elite (ranked 1-100) and 10 amateur skiers (ranked 101-1,500) during the 90-km Vasaloppet race were collected. In addition, during the first uphill, the first 1,000 skiers were video-recorded to analyze the applied skiing strategy (e.g. grip-waxed skis versus exclusive double poling). Results Mean race intensity was 82% of maximal HR and was not different between performance groups even though elite skiers skied similar to 15% faster than amateurs. There was an interaction effect of section x group with a pronounced decrease in HR in amateurs compared with more even pacing in elite skiers (0.13 vs. 0.04% decrease/km) and skiing at higher percentage in the high-intensity zones in elite compared with amateurs (46 vs. 24%). Ninety-eight percent of the top 100 skiers and 59% of the first 1,000 skiers used exclusively double poling. Conclusion Elite and amateur skiers ski at comparable mean race exercise intensity, but they have clear differences in skiing speed. The difference in the pacing profiles between elite and amateur skiers (more even vs. distinct positive pacing) demonstrate the greater capacity of the former with respect to physiological capacity and highlights that amateurs seem to start too fast according to their capacities. The exclusive application of the double poling technique is no longer a phenomenon of elite skiers but is widely used among the top 1,000 ranked skiers.
The purpose of the current study was to develop and validate an automatic algorithm for classification of cross-country (XC) ski-skating gears (G) using Smartphone accelerometer data. Eleven XC skiers (seven men, four women) with regional-to-international levels of performance carried out roller skiing trials on a treadmill using fixed gears (G2left, G2right, G3, G4left, G4right) and a 950-m trial using different speeds and inclines, applying gears and sides as they normally would. Gear classification by the Smartphone (on the chest) and based on video recordings were compared. Formachine-learning, a collective database was compared to individual data. The Smartphone application identified the trials with fixed gears correctly in all cases. In the 950-m trial, participants executed 140 ± 22 cycles as assessed by video analysis, with the automatic Smartphone application giving a similar value. Based on collective data, gears were identified correctly 86.0% ± 8.9% of the time, a value that rose to 90.3% ± 4.1% (P < 0.01) with machine learning from individual data. Classification was most often incorrect during transition between gears, especially to or from G3. Identification was most often correct for skiers who made relatively few transitions between gears. The accuracy of the automatic procedure for identifying G2left, G2right, G3, G4left and G4right was 96%, 90%, 81%, 88% and 94%, respectively. The algorithm identified gears correctly 100% of the time when a single gear was used and 90% of the time when different gears were employed during a variable protocol. This algorithm could be improved with respect to identification of transitions between gears or the side employed within a given gear.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare various power output estimates and estimate anaerobic energy supply during treadmill roller-skiing. Roller-skiing sprint time-trial performance on a treadmill was compared to numerical simulations of three different power output estimates; non-inertial power estimate (NIP), inertial power estimate (IP), and optimization power estimate (OP). The OP was in best agreement with the measured speed of the skier. However, the IP was in better agreement with the measured finishing time of the real time trial, which may suggest that the IP better approximated the mean power than the other two estimates. Moreover, the NIP and IP are more simplistic than the OP and thereby more practical from a scientific standpoint. Based on this we recommend the use of the IP estimate.
Purpose: The aim of the current study was to investigate pacing strategies and the distributionof physiological resources in best versus worst performances during a series of 4-minute, self-paced running time-trials (RunTTs). Methods: Five male and five female recreational runners(age 32 ± 7 years) completed a sub-maximal ramp test and five RunTTs on a motor-driventreadmill fitted with a speed-controlling laser system. The supramaximal V̇ O2 demand wasestimated by linear extrapolation from the sub-maximal relationship between V̇ O2 and speed,enabling computation of the accumulated oxygen deficit (AOD). Results: There were nosignificant differences between the five RunTTs for any of the performance, physiological orsubjective responses (P > 0.05). The trial-to-trial variability in pacing (i.e., separate quarters)was typically low, with an average within-athlete CV of 3.3%, being highest at the start andend of the 4 minutes. Total distance covered and distance covered over the first and last 2minutes for best and worst performances were 1137 ± 94 and 1090 ± 89 m (P < 0.001), 565 ±53 and 526 ± 40 m (P = 0.002), and 572 ± 47 and 565 ± 54 m (P = 0.346), respectively.Conclusions: Negative pacing strategies were evident during both the best and worstperformances of the RunTT. Best performances were characterised by more aggressive pacingover the first 2 minutes compared with worst performances. In addition, the relatively low trial-to-trial variability in running speed suggests that pacing strategies are similar during a seriesof 4-minute, self-paced running time-trials.
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of the present study was, to examine the effects of repeated sprint skiing on the contractile apparatus of single muscle fibres obtained from a group of elite skiers. We have recently demonstrated that prolonged cycling exercise impairs the contractile apparatus of single muscle fibres, and that this can be restored following recovery. However, little is known about the effect of repeated high intensity exercise on single fibre properties, as i.e. during cross-country (cc) sprint competitions. We hypothesize that repeated high intensity exercise in highly trained subjects will impair the contractile apparatus maximum force output.
METHOD: Eleven elite male sprint talented cc skiers (age 24 ± 4 years; VO2max 5.1 ± 0.5 (diagonal skiing, DIA), 4.9 ± 0.5 (double pooling, DP) L·min-1)) volunteered for the study. The skiers performed a simulated intermittent classic sprint roller skiing competition on a treadmill. The sprint exercise included 4 times1300m, with 45 min recovery between sprints. Each sprint consisted of 3 DP sections (1° uphill) and 2 DIA sections (7° uphill). Muscle biopsies were obtained in arm muscle (m. biceps brachii) before and after the sprint exercises. Muscle fibre bundles were cooled and skinned in a glycerinating solution and stored until analyzed. Single muscle fibre segments (n=232) were isolated and attached to a sensitive force recording transducer, and activated by Ca2+ buffered solutions at pH 7.1 to measure mechanically properties (maximum force Po and Po/cross sectional area (CSA)) and fibre typed by the Sr2+ sensitivity (Hvid et al. 2013).
RESULTS: Average sprint time was 3min 49s ± 9s, with no difference between sprints. A total of 232 fibres were analysed (150 type I and 82 type II fibres). Type II fibres had a sign. (P<0.05) higher CSA (8103 ± 2334 µm2 (type I) and 8852 ± 2288 µm2 (type II) and Po (0.82 ± 0.43 and 1.24 ± 0.50 mN) than type I fibres. Also type II fibres had a 31% higher Po/CSA (108 ± 55 vs 142 ± 45 kN/m2). Following the intermittent sprint exercise, type II fibres exhibited a sign. (P = 0.01) 20% decrease in Po, with no difference in type I fibres. To test if the decrease in the single fibre Po were associated with oxidative stress we tested if this could be reversed with a strong reducing agent (dithiothreitol, DTT). DTT did not alter Po at pre nor the decrease in type II fibres following sprint exercise.
DISCUSSION: By using a translational approach from whole body exercise to single fibre measurements, we here we demonstrate that type II fibres from highly trained cross country skiers, has a 20% decrease in Po following repeated sprint. Thus, part of the experienced fatigue following sprint competitions is due to impairments at the level of the contractile apparatus. Further, we did not find any evidence for oxidative stress as a causative component in the observed decrease in Po.
CONCLUSION: Here we demonstrate for the first time, in highly trained sprint skiers, that repeated sprint impairs single fibre maximum force at the level of the contractile apparatus, which may have a significant impact on muscle function and fatigue.
REFERENCES: Gejl K, Hvid LG, Ulrik Frandsen U, Jensen K, Sahlin K and Ørtenblad N. Muscle glycogen content modifies SR Ca2+ release rate in elite endurance athletes. Med. Sci. Sports Ex. (2013).


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Stuttering affects the fluency of speech. The condition is characterized by disruptions in the production of speech sounds, also called "disfluencies." A person who stutters may repeat parts of a word ("muh-my"), whole words ("my my"), prolong sounds ("mmmmy") or experience a blockage of speech when no sound comes out ("m---my"). People who stutter may also exhibit secondary characteristics while stuttering such as blinking their eyes, breaking eye contact, tensing the muscles in their mouth or moving their hands, feet or head. Stuttering begins during childhood and, in some cases, lasts throughout life.
About three-quarters of children who exhibit stuttering in their preschool years will outgrow it. Because of this, for young children, it is important to determine whether their stuttering is a temporary condition or a long-term issue. Evaluations are completed by speech-language pathologists who are certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of stuttering. We offer evaluations and therapy for preschool, school-age and adolescents who stutter.
Evaluating a child's stutter requires a series of tests, observations and interviews designed to estimate the child's risk of continuing to stutter. No single factor can determine a child's long-term outlook. Instead, a range of factors are considered and must be balanced against each other, including:
The goal of preschool fluency therapy is to help a young child develop normal fluency. With that in mind, our therapy for preschool-aged patients is typically designed to eliminate or significantly reduce the child's stuttering.
Parents play a critical role in helping their child produce fluent speech. For that reason, it is recommended parents attend and participate in all therapy sessions so they can learn the strategies and techniques used in therapy and use them at home with their child.
For children around age seven and older, stuttering is viewed as something to be managed. For these individuals, we evaluate the overall severity of the disorder. We also assess the impact the disorder has on the person's ability to communicate and participate appropriately in daily activities. Information from the evaluation is then used to develop a specific treatment program that is designed to help the individual speak more fluently, communicate more effectively and participate more fully in activities.
To schedule an appointment, first obtain an order or referral from your primary care physician and then call 1.800.543.7362 (1.800.KIDS DOC) to schedule.
To learn more about fluency and stuttering services at Lurie Children's, please call us at 312.227.6320 or e-mail us at firstname.lastname@example.com and ask to be connected with our fluency and stuttering specialist.
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'This is all the land of Blarnia,' said the Faun. 'From the traffic light in the western woods to the great castle of Cair Amel on the eastern sea, bordered on the south by Oz, on the west by Middle Earth, and on the north by Made-upistan.'
'I – I got in through the wardrobe,' said Loo.
Mr Dumbness looked at her in disbelief. 'You got here through a wardrobe?' he asked. 'What are you, high?'
The explanatory title to this book is 'The Lying Bitch in the Wardrobe'. This is all you need to know about it before diving in.
The plot of this novel is startlingly familiar to that of some obscure book published some seventy years ago by a little-known hermit called Jack Lewis. The afterword by author Michael Gerber expresses mystification at his having being plagiarised years before his own birth. It would seem the publishing industry is even stranger than anyone suspected.
Four children are sold by their parents to a crotchety old professor, who needs subjects for his invasive medical experiments. Pete, Sue, Loo and Ed Perversie were told by this was to protect them from the 'invisi-bombing of London'. Of the four children, only Ed has the common sense to realize this is a colossal fib. He despairs that he has been laboured with three such idiotic siblings. Pete is a hyperactive thug suffering from ADD, whose solution to every problem is to try and dig a hole. Sue is marginally more intelligent, but insists on thinking the best of everyone. Loo is determinedly suicidal and bears a suspicious resemblance to a neighbour who lived down the street from the family home. One afternoon, while hiding from the demented professor who now legally owns them, the younger sister discovers a magic wardrobe (as well as a looking glass, a deep hole and a tesseract). Loo is transported to the weird world of Blarnia and meets the conniving Faun Mr Dumbness. In typical fashion she ignores every sign that he intends to feed her to the Wide Witch.
When Ed follows his sister he discovers strange and very adult feelings towards the ruling monarch of Blarnia, a compulsive eater obsessed with trying the delicacy known as 'Son of Atom and Daughter of Steve'. Precocious to a fault, Ed fails to recognize the danger posed to his own life by the Wide Witch and agrees to bring the other Perversie children to her castle. On their travels across the winter wonderland the kids encounter other exotic creatures, such as a pair of lesbian beavers, a gin-loving Father Xmas and the cat-messiah Asthma, whose carpentry skills leave a little to be desired.
This very special book comes with an extra feature, called CensorVision, which spares readers from any offensive ideas and/or words. Also most of the characters have already read ahead to the end of the novel, just so they know how to move the plot along when required. Which is a good thing too, as the land of Blarnia is teeming with unnecessary plot devices and thinly disguised allegorical characters, not to mention a long suffering messiah, who wonders if his believers will ever understand his simple message that 'Killing People is Bad!'
Unfortunately the relentless mockery of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe feels like shooting fish in a barrel. There have, after all, been many other piss-takes of C.S. Lewis' rigidly allegorical Christian fantasy, including the cartoon South Park. What I love is the idea that Edward is actually the voice of reason. Throw in some amusing authorial asides and the laziness of this parody itself becomes the chief joke of the book.
It makes me wonder what a more ambitious take on the material might have been like. What if Jadis was in fact a democracy and climate change activist, attempting to enlighten the pagan people of Narnia to the realities of science. They insist on worshipping a lion, who can allegedly talk, although all he ever seems to do is eat people. Then four agent provocateurs from a foreign land agitate the natives into a frenzy of mob violence and establish a horrific fundamentalist junta.
Shortly Tom came upon the juvenile pariah of the village, Huckleberry Finn, son of the town drunkard. Huckleberry was cordially hated and dreaded by all the mothers of the town because he was idle, and lawless, and vulgar, and bad – and because all their children admired him so, and delighted in his forbidden society and wished they dared to be like him. Tom was like the rest of the respectable boys in that he envied Huckleberry his gaudy outcast condition, and was under strict orders not to play with him. So he played with him every time he got a chance.
I find it amazing how often a story heralded as a classic soon becomes divorced from any sense of what made it special in the first place. I am sure everyone is familiar with the story of Tom Sawyer and can conjure up in an instant the appearance of Tom's friend Huckleberry Finn. The story has been filmed countless times, there was even a Soviet version in 1947, but to people of a certain age who grew up in the 80's, I imagine this is the version you are most familiar with. What I find surprising is that my would-be 'knowledge', of the book is a pale and diluted imitation of Twain's work, still full of wit and vigour.
There's a line in The West Wing that I've always been fond of – Ich hub uuz deh gebracht which apparently is Yiddish for 'I'm having the strongest memory'. When I started reading The Adventures of Tom Sawyer I suddenly found myself remembering an afternoon sitting in class in a Christian Brothers school in Ballyfermot, Dublin. The teacher would sometimes read books to us, including J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit and C. S. Lewis' The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe inspiring in me a life-long love of reading, particularly fantasy novels. On this day she read to us from The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and chose the scene where Tom meets Becky Thatcher. My teacher enjoyed putting on the accents and started to imitate that high-pitched drawl common to Southern belles. Suddenly I felt my cheeks burning, my shoulders tensed and I found myself trying to squeeze beneath my desk. Strange new feelings of excitement, embarrassment and shame came over me. It was very unsettling, the sensation alien and perplexing.
It strikes to the heart of Twain's writing, however, which is to depict the adventures of his child heroes in the American South with all the nostalgic innocence that is demanded, but also allowing for the adult intrigues and mysteries that children witness without fully understanding.
Tom Sawyer is an impulsive, yet fiercely intelligent young boy, living with his Aunt Polly, half-brother (and snitch) Sid and cousin Mary. He is forever getting into scrapes of one kind of another, fighting in the streets, or exploiting the gullibility of the other children. He runs a rapid trade in bartering marbles and curiosities. The incident with the white picket fence that occurs at the beginning of the novel is two-fold scheme of Tom's that allows him to pocket the many odds and ends offered to him by the other boys in tribute, and fool his Aunt into thinking he has completed his punishment. He enjoys playing Robin Hood with Joe Harper. They both know the book by heart and recite each line as they trade blows. The arrival of Becky Thatcher sets Tom to wooing her, with his own particular take on 'engagement'.
Of course Huckleberry Finn is the most well-known of Tom's companions, who lives the kind of life that Sawyer desperately wants to lead. While he goes to school and attempts to learn Bible verses for prizes, Huck Finn wanders the town at his leisure, sleeps wherever he chooses and does not care to dress in his Sunday best. One night the boys stumble upon a sight that terrifies them, something far more horrible than anything they could have dreamt of in all their imaginary adventures as pirates on the high seas, or thieving in Sherwood Forest. The murderous Injun Joe stalks Tom's dreams as he tries to decide what to do in this all-too-real adventure.
Twain writes in a manner that is familiar and warm, yet also cutting. Real romance and real adventure occur in childhood, everything afterwards is just an echo. His descriptions are dense, yet essential to the breezy mood. A beautiful read.


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Got a Job?
The Conference Board released their "Employment Trends Index" yesterday and it is declining faster than at any time since the 1974 recession. The decline suggests there will be considerable job losses for the next several months.
This further supports our January forecast that local home values will decline for all of 2009. Real estate values will reach a bottom 6-9 months after the economy bottoms. And we do not expect the economy to bottom anytime soon.
If you are contemplating selling your home, do so soon. Or plan to wait 4-7 years to sell at today's prices! If you are thinking of purchasing a home, make sure you have solid advice on how to best take advantage of the current "buyers' market".
Jeff Stricker & Steve TenBroeck


text: Play the best royalty games online for free at TheFrozenGames.com.We have 5 royalty games for girls that can be played online. Play all our cool free royalty games online at our site. Vote for the best royalty games for girls. It is all about Frozen Games with new Elsa Games every day. Share all the Frozen games with your friends! Enjoy playing royalty now.


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Latest News
Lascelles: 'We're fully focused on Saturday's game'
Written by Dan King
Captain Jamaal Lascelles says Newcastle's players are fully focused on Saturday's first Premier League game of the season against Tottenham Hotspur.
United had been unbeaten in their opening three pre-season friendlies but lost 4-0 to SC Braga last Wednesday and 1-0 to FC Augsburg on Saturday.
And while skipper Lascelles admits he would have preferred to have rounded off the warm-up fixtures with more positive results, he spoke to the club's official website on Wednesday afternoon as the players carried out 'walk up' media duties for broadcasters including Sky Sports and BT Sport.
"It would have been nice to get a couple of good results out of the games but what's important is we've got all the fitness we need for the first game of the season, and I think gradually we've improved," Lascelles told nufc.co.uk.
"I think the last game (against Augsburg), we can definitely take a lot of positives from that - okay, we didn't win but we got everything we need out of the game.
"The majority of the team got through (pre-season) injury free and everyone is really fit. Especially for me, last pre-season I didn't really get to play much because I was injured but I'll be looking to play this game and hopefully I'll be flying.
"And that goes for the rest of the team. Everybody looks sharp, we're training hard and we've all got our heads in the right place.
"We've managed to sort the off-field stuff; now that's out of the way, we don't have any reason why we can't go out and put on a good performance.
"We know where we stand. No-one's moaning, no-one's upset and now it's just about gelling together even more, working hard, getting a good energy around the club and the training ground - and doing what we do best which is working hard and playing as team."
Monday saw West Bromwich Albion forward Salomón Rondón become United's sixth signing of the summer, joining Martin Dúbravka, Kenedy, Ki Sung-yueng, Fabian Schär and Yoshinori Mutō on Tyneside.
And Lascelles said: "We finished tenth (last season) with the team that we've got now, and we've now got the likes of Martin and Kenedy for the full season rather than just half a season.
"And adding to that, Rondón's a very good signing - a very powerful player, fast, strong.
"I didn't play against West Brom away but when we played them at home, in terms of physicality, he's probably one of the toughest strikers I've played against.
"He's strong, he can run in behind, he can win headers and he works hard for the team. He's experienced in the Premier League so I think that's going to give us a massive boost and since he's been training with us he's looked really good.
"Mutō looks very energetic and works hard, and we've all played against Ki and technically he's excellent on the ball, a very tidy player, and I think he'll work really well in that midfield.
"So we've made some good signings and I think it won't take long for us to really gel together and carry on with the same team chemistry that we had last year."
"We've managed to sort the off-field stuff; now that's out of the way, we don't have any reason why we can't go out and put on a good performance."


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Even though being a part of The Bachelor definitely has its fair share of exciting perks, there are certain drawbacks to making your search for love so public. You know, mainly because you subject yourself to being completely torn to pieces by viewers. And in what is clearly a response to people making fun of her appearance, Carly Waddell just revealed that she has hyperthyroidism, which causes quite a few unpleasant side effects.
Check out her brutally honest admission, which she shared on Instagram.
Let's talk about my eyebrows. Let's cut to the chase here! I was just diagnosed last year with a severe case of hypothyroid. Unfortunately they haven't grown, and I haven't plucked in 10 years. So u can make of them....and I will too!! But I can't make hair grow that my body won't grow. It's just not possible. Just wanted everyone to know! Cuz YOUR struggle is MY struggle with them. Sorry guys!!!! #TheBachelor
OMG. Poor Carly! People can be so freakin' heartless, and I must say that it has been pretty appalling to see so many "fans" make fun of her eyebrows on Twitter during this season's episodes.
Seriously, I know we all tend to get a little snarky when it comes to the ladies who are vying for Chris Soules' heart, but out of everyone in the group, Carly has to be one of the most down-to-earth, likable people on the show.
More from The Stir: Steamy 'Bachelor' Sneak Peek Shows Chris Soules ... Doing Things to Carly (VIDEO)
It just seems so cruel to blatantly tear her apart for something she clearly has no control over, so hopefully hearing that she has a health condition will shut her haters up once and for all.
And honestly, are her eyebrows really all that bad to begin with? Hey, at least she doesn't resort to wearing fake ones, which is more than we can say for what some of the other women on the show would probably do.
Do you feel bad for Carly?
Image via ABC


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The Easter holidays are now over but here you can see some of the photos of the three day complete textile weaving course for beginners here in the Ribeira Sacra (Galicia). We all agreed that a weaving course like this must be one of the most relaxing – and unusual – ways to enjoy the Easter or spring break.
We kicked off the course with a quick introductory session to weaving on a pre-prepared loom and discover what terms like warp and weft actually mean and how a loom actually works. In less than an hour our novice weavers had surprised themselves by weaving their first piece of cloth, creating their own simple designs and patterns. By the end of the 3 days, we were all talking about warp density, picks, shafts, heddles and weave structure like true professionals!
Then the real work of the course began. Armed with the technical project file the looms were set up with a popular threading, romantically called Rosepath.
Over the next day and a half the warp threads (the group of threads on the loom) were measured and threaded up on the loom. Well done! Not a single error in the pattern threading and only a couple of easy-to-repair errors in the reed threading. This meant we were able to get straight onto the next stage which is always fun – sampling different designs, colours and yarns!
Sampling was the next stage and right from the beginning each person unconsciously started to explore their different personal styles and preferences for pattern, colour and texture. Silk, lambswool and silk-wool mixes were tested out with the gorgeous natural dye colours of the AC Textile Studio.
When the samples were finished we sat down over coffee to analyse the bits we liked best and to see how different colours, yarns and patterns work and work out the design for the final pieces of work – the scarves.
The final proyect under way – pupils work against the clock to weave their own scarf. We decided that weaving was so relaxing we could all have stayed weaving until nightfall – ending up with 4m long scarves!!!
And the final results – Aida and Carmen´s first ever hand-woven scarves. Nice work and I hope you notice the perfect colour co-ordination.
If you weren´t able to come to the Easter course and Aida´s and Carmen´s first scarves make you feel inspired then there is still time to reserve your place on the compact version of the course on the 5/6 of June 2011. The course can be given in Spanish, English or in Spanish with English language support. No previous weaving experience is necessary.
Thanks Aida and Carmen for being such good fun – I hope to see you both again in the summer!
Latest alpaca collapse scarf from Anna Champeney Estudio Textil
I´ve just finished weaving the latest sample design with alpaca and angora yarn combined with a high twist wool and corneta nylon yarn (from the Danish yarn purchasing association). Left – on the loom, before washing, the scarf looks like a classic flat fabric. But right – see what happens with a hot hand-wash; corrugations form which bring out the soft grey with the orchil and cochineal-dyed yarns form a warmly coloured backdrop to the design.


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Control GMP Content And Prevent Revenue Loss In Life Sciences Manufacturing
Life sciences organizations face more pressure than ever to run efficient, uninterrupted manufacturing production at the lowest possible cost. To stay compliant with government regulations, quality and manufacturing organizations must precisely follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standardized processes and maintain an associated document control process that adheres to those requirements.
Manufacturing departments are increasingly confronted with time-consuming, manual review and approval processes that lead to insufficient control of critical quality documentation. Many IT departments are tasked with identifying ways to improve the overall efficiency and control of quality and manufacturing documents to mitigate the potential risk of consent decree fines and production delays.
The EMC Documentum Quality and Manufacturing solution (Documentum Q&M), part of the EMC Documentum for Life Sciences solution suite, enables life sciences organizations to control quality and manufacturing documents, automate workflows across the extended enterprise, and ensure compliance with GMP standards.
Documentum Q&M provides an industry-standard, out-of-the-box document taxonomy to help you quickly create documents and search and navigate within them. This includes documents related to Quality and/or Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) based on the DIA reference model, as well as procedures, governance, corporate policies and validation reports.
With Documentum Q&M, you can clearly prove 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through extensive audit trails, access controls (including e-approval and e-signature support), and document distribution, version control and lifecycle management. The solution also supports print-control services and preconfigured, dynamic watermarking and overlays to ensure document security.
Documentum Q&M delivers innovative functionality designed to address the challenges of managing quality and manufacturing documentation—and the benefits of a trusted and highly scalable foundation: EMC Documentum, the life sciences industry standard for enterprise content management. The result is unprecedented efficiency, agility, document control and compliance that's key to getting products to market ahead of the competition. To learn more, visit us at www.emc.com.


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A Health care professional needs to be consulted in advance of taking any drug, switching any diet or commencing or discontinuing any study course of therapy.
Librax also shouldn't be taken coupled with other medications that have an effect on the central nervous technique, for example antidepressants.
Divinitatea iti ordona "sa nu ucizi", deoarece Ea este cea treatment va imparti dreptatea la timpul cuvenit, si numai Ea poate razbuna deplin sufletele de copii maltratati. Si sa te fereasca (daca mai are cine) de pedeapsa divina finala... Pedeapsa capitala: votez nu.
An increase in stomach fuel may well take place, but generally goes absent with continued treatment. If this outcome persists or worsens, notify your health care provider or pharmacist immediately.
Our free DiscountRx savings card will help you and your family members lower your expenses on the prescriptions. This card is approved whatsoever main chain pharmacies, nationwide. Enter your name and e-mail address to get your free savings card. Enter Your Title
Pass, there isn't any want to worry about dedication. If you decide you want to discontinue the company, you can terminate your subscription Anytime. Despite what your transport needs, Walmart's bought you included. Join Shipping
This doc does not consist of all feasible interactions. As a result, ahead of employing this product or service, notify your health care provider or pharmacist of every one of the merchandise you use. Keep an index of your medications with you, and share the record with all your health care provider and pharmacist.
Selected from data incorporated with permission and copyrighted by Very first Databank, Inc. This copyrighted materials is downloaded from a licensed details service provider and isn't for distribution, count on as could possibly be approved from the relevant phrases of use.
All drugs could result in side effects. Even so, Many individuals don't have any side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical assistance if any of such side effects or some other side effects bother you or do not disappear: Cough.
Drugs that have amount limitations associated with Each individual prescription. This restriction commonly limitations the amount with the drug that can be covered.
Throughout the DJI GO 4 app you see everything the camera sees, in addition to every little thing you have to know regarding your Mavic, from battery lifestyle to wherever it is, to exactly where Get the facts it is heading and even more.
Throughout pregnancy, this products needs to be made use of only when clearly essential. Focus on the dangers and Positive aspects with all your medical doctor.
Use of the website confirms your knowing that the knowledge on Rebates.com ought to not be made use of instead for Physician directed medical instruction. The material on this Internet site is published by a team of scientists without the need of medical training.
The FDA hasn't reviewed this product for basic safety or usefulness. Talk to your physician or pharmacist For additional information.
What Does tobradex Mean?
A Health care professional needs to be consulted in advance of taking any drug, switching any diet or commencing or discontinuing any study course of therapy.


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2018 CSBS Fly-in
The annual CSBS legislative fly-in was packed with meetings between state regulators and their members of Congress and important discussions with leaders of the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, and CFPB, plus White House staff.
Albert Forkner (WY), CSBS Board chair, extended a huge thanks to the 39 states that sent representatives to Washington for this important event and to the CSBS Board for their participation in the quarterly meeting.
Notable speakers included:
- Lael Brainard, governor, Federal Reserve Board
- Steve Mnuchin, secretary, U.S. Department of the Treasury
- Mick Mulvaney, director, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and acting director, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Rep. Jeb Hensarling (TX-05), chairman, U.S. House Committee on Financial Services
- Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03), chairman, U.S. House Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit
- Senator Jon Tester (D-MT)
- Amy H. Swonger & Mary Elizabeth Taylor, assistants to the President of the United States
- Brian Brooks, EVP, general counsel, and corporate secretary, Fannie Mae
- Victoria Guida & Colin Wilhelm, POLITICO
CSBS's Vision 2020 was woven through the events. Other prominent themes included:
- Pending public policy items, including S. 2155
- Federal Reserve policy
- Community banks
- Demographic trends in home ownership
- Fintech
- Equifax
- Multi-state money services licensing
- Disaster response
- Bank Service Company Act (BSCA) and third-party service providers
In his remarks on Tuesday, CFPB Acting Director Mick Mulvaney, also a former member of Congress, stressed the importance of regulators' fly-in participation, saying that people from back home are first in line to see their congressional representative in Washington. On Wednesday, state regulators fanned out across Capitol Hill to meet with members of their congressional delegations.
Prior to those meetings, CSBS president and CEO John Ryan thanked each state regulator for traveling to Washington, saying, "The close personal relationships that state regulators build with their congressional delegations are vital to advancing the interests of the dual banking system in the U.S. and state officials' ability to continue to protect local consumers and create environments that support local economies."
See more photos from the week's events below.


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The river still sang its endless loop
of November song as it rolled past
the old steel bridge, even though
January had almost run its course.
On the hillside above, the latest
excuse-me snow had whitewashed
the abandoned shopping carts,
empty bottles of someone's
hope turned to hopelessness —
perhaps the other way around —
and a notebook, its pages fat
with ice, its back broken,
its heart now devoid of words.
Where once ran the lyrics to
the music below, the sun had
bleached each line, exsanguinated
warm memory of their watching
the river flow, dreams to follow it
someday out of the valley,
to where the wind carried
the perfume of nature and not
the cough of the mines.
The coal train strikes up a new
strain, overpowering the waterway
that drew its path before factory
and farm knew this frozen soil.
In the roar and wind as it passes,
ringing its way out of this valley,
the pages flutter and reveal
seconds of secrets a girl never
told a boy, only to disappear
back to the winter white and
the sound the river makes as
it chases tomorrow and runs
from yesterday in its wordless
November song.
The photo above inspired this piece and is by my friend and fellow river wanderer, the brilliant photographer and writer Diana Matisz (https://about.me/diana_matisz)


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|- Knolik
adirondack mountains
adirondack mountains defined in 1939 yearadirondack mountains - Adirondack Mountains;
adirondack mountains - A group of mountains situated in the N.E. of the state of New York, U.S.A. Lying between Lake Champlain, E., and the St. Lawrence, W., it forms part of the Appalachian system. The head streams of the Hudson river take their rise in these picturesque mountains. Numerous small lakes, many of them over 1,500 ft. above sea level, afford excellent fishing, and there are extensive forests of pine, birch, beech, etc., about 4,000 sq. m. of which have been constituted a state reserve. The region, especially Keene Valley, is a favourite hunting and tourist resort, and several sanatoria are established there for the treatment of lung diseases. There are rich deposits of magnetic iron-ore. The highest summit is Mt. Marcy or Tahawus, 5,385 ft. See Appalachian Mts.
near adirondack mountains in Knolik
definition of word "adirondack mountains" was readed 970 times
|Legal info


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Wednesdays, 10-10:40am
For children 3.5 years and older and their caregivers.
Join us at the Mahomet Public Library and participate in our weekly storytimes! We'll read books, sing songs, learn dances, play games, make crafts, and more! This storytime program is designed for children aged 3.5 through 6 years. Featuring songs, dances, games and books as well as a weekly craft, the material is selected for kids who have some practice with sitting for short periods. Siblings are welcome to attend with adult supervision.
If you have any questions about this program or if your child has special needs we should be aware of, please contact the Youth Services Librarian, at firstname.lastname@example.com or (217) 586-2611.
No registration is required for this event.
This program is part of our Firm Foundations initiative for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.


text: The Belgian biologist Geert Goemans, visited our Museum in the month of May. He took this opportunity to record the songs of several species of cicadas on the campus of the Faculty of Agronomy and associate them with live specimens. He was also fortunate to find two specimens of Aragualna plenalinea from Rancho Grande and photograph them alive.


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While there are many brands of coffee makers around the world, there is no denying that Cuisinart is one of the most popular. It is safe to say that all their products are generally superior in terms of quality and performance. Nonetheless, their durability and long-term functionality will still depend on how you take care […]Continue reading
If a French Press or coffee maker is available in your kitchen for many coffee-based beverages, such as cappuccinos and lattes, apart from buying the best coffee beans for French Press and coffee maker, milk froth – this is one of the essentials. Fortunately, frothing milk is one thing that you can do with relative […]Continue reading
Are you confused with all those different kinds of food measurements? I know that I was. Whenever I'd want to make a new dish, first I had to do some math and convert the measurements.Only that way I'd get the correct amount of ingredients needed for my recipe. It goes without saying that you really […]Continue reading
If you like an occasional drink, or you have been around enough parties, you know what a fifth is. Just in case, know that usually, when people speak of a fifth of something, they are referring to a fifth of a gallon, or 750 ml, or ⅘ quarts.Now that we have that cleared up, it's […]Continue reading
Whether you like to have an occasional drink, or you are a cocktail connoisseur, you have definitely used a shot glass before. Even if it's cooking, shot glasses come in handy when you need to have a specific measure of a liquid. Yet, sometimes it is hard to know which shot glass to use and […]Continue reading


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Math Secrets and techniques Exposed
There's nothing magnificent regarding KS1 as well as KS2 math. Typical kid will be able to resolve difficulties through examination documents. Nevertheless, kids are now being halted through actually attempting… Exactly how tend to be these people designed to resolve an easy formula (a regular query in the exam) when they haven't already been subjected to this,!
2 yrs back We requested my personal boy to complete a few examination documents. He or she was not in a position to resolve plenty of all of them, despite the fact that these people didn't include greater math. He or she simply was not actually launched in order to this kind of queries. If you're anticipating the 9 12 months aged to resolve these types of queries themself, you reside within desire property… Fundamental understanding needs to be trained towards the kids. They have to get research every single day, they have to practice math. Exactly what occurred in order to equivalent probabilities for those, Kids was previously made by colleges for his or her assessments, without having mother and father stressing about this, without having extra courses, college tuition… exactly what proceeded to go incorrect,
Math these days is created way too complex. We don't believe any kind of brand new methods for adding/subtracting/multiplying assist, however increase the misunderstandings. It had been sufficient to view the TELEVISION program regarding enhancing training requirements within supplementary colleges by utilizing 3 colored mugs (use red-colored someone to cease the actual instructor whenever you do not understand something) to begin stressing regarding your son or daughter. That pops up with one of these suggestions, They might function within higher colleges, however main colleges do not require some thing compared to much more mathematics training as well as parents' curiosity about training. In the event that instructors do not get parental assistance, they're not going to have the ability to accomplish greater requirements. Kids have to save money compared to 10 min's understanding or even critiquing in your own home. These days main college students aren't likely to contend, since it is actually harmful to all of them, they've simply to spend some time from college actively playing the majority of the day time ( I'm speaking through my personal kid's experience|).
These people return house discouraged, because they discovered absolutely nothing plus they take a seat to complete more math… beside me.
I'm sorry, however In my opinion within old-fashioned understanding as well as competitors. Occasions desk nevertheless must be discovered through center if you wish to improvement within math, there isn't any method close to this. Competitors is required every single child evaluate outcomes as well as enhance.
Let us presume, your son or daughter isn't considering GCSE within math. He's heading simply to cope with math to maintain the actual instructor pleased. He then begins residing their existence with out any kind of understanding of the risk associated with substance curiosity, charge cards as well as financial loans. Resident without having fundamental suggestions associated with exactly what existence is about. The reason why do you consider we now have a lot criminal offense, Simply because young adults, discouraged (because associated with insufficient knowledge), mind with regard to simple methods for obtaining cash as well as products… robbing, thievery, medicines. In addition incorrect instance in your own home. Or even absolutely no instance whatsoever.
Colleges grew to become free of charge child-minding locations. A person get rid of your son or daughter from 9, get following 3 and also you possess just a few several hours if you want to invest period performing some thing for that kids. at the. grams. cooking food or even cleaning their own clothing. It isn't exactly what getting kids is about.
I actually do not really anticipate mother and father to show mathematics (even from main school), however I actually do anticipate kids, who wish to discover, to obtain training through college on the degree letting them move ahead in order to any kind of sentence structure college these people desire. When the college doesn't supply this particular training, what's the idea from the college,
Even though your son or daughter doesn't plan to visit the sentence structure college, he'd nevertheless take advantage of a great knowledge of fundamental math. Therefore may their supplementary instructors.
It's a lot simpler to train, for those who have the course associated with students, who are able to adhere to the actual training… 'm We the whistle motorized inflator,


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We love this, it's a simple and fun activation for Ikea in the UK.
Basically Ikea has set up a cafe in London that will serve you breakfast in a bed. So no table and chairs – you sit in an Ikea bed and eat. Sounds like heaven.
The cafe will be open from May 18-20th. To score a place at the cafe, customers have to book a 'single' or 'double' Ikea bed for 45 min max from 7am until noon for a traditional Swedish breakfast. Then, from noon until 3pm the beds can still be booked for an afternoon nap. Sleep specialists are on hand if you need it.
The cafe will have 4 breakfast sitings in the morning with 64 people per sitting – that's a lot of ZZZZZ.


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Life was trying to squeeze me at the throat, suffocate, juice out any life left within me, quite simply, choke me, and block any air supply that…… Read more "I decided"
Tag: poetry
Somehow, I kept arriving in the dark alleyway of confusion but no way is this my destination. My life travel card stops in many places and even…… Read more "Self-talk"
Time for the truth
You are the beauty you so desperately look outward for. It's time someone told you the truth. The truth beyond social perception and the truth over the opinions…… Read more "Time for the truth"
Self-Defined BE(YOU)TY (Part 2)
So there was a vow that I kept to my soul, a very long time ago, that I would never have any business trying to take another…… Read more "Self-Defined BE(YOU)TY (Part 2)"
The Exposé
Love comes, kicks down your door and demands to sweep you off your feet. Promising to provide you with far more than your wants and needs, accelerating…… Read more "The Exposé"
Who is she?
Who is she? She is clothed in grace Armed in strength and zeal Embroidered in courage Invested in hope Who is she? She is humble and highly…… Read more "Who is she?"
Life's little treasures
It's the way a person's smile can light up their eyes, which feels like where stars and paradise reside. It's the wink from the boy or girl…… Read more "Life's little treasures"
The Root Of Pure Love
The book of life says in 1 Corinthians 13:4 that "love is patient and love is kind" Love is also action. Love is time. Love is doing…… Read more "The Root Of Pure Love"
Running With My Imagination.
Imagine, heaven had visiting hours. Imagine, having one last chance to say to a friend what you never could. Imagine, a life with no fear embracing your…… Read more "Running With My Imagination."
The Road to Serenity
Hopeless end to endless hope. Broken heart to mended soul. Life of fear to unwavering faith. My load of pain, He carried away. From selfishness to service. Life…… Read more "The Road to Serenity"


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.NET Developer
The .NET developer plays a vital role at Absolunet: 3 of our 4 main platforms are created with .NET. In other words, no .NET, no eCommerce.
Which means you're sort of our Shea Weber – indispensable and at the heart of the action.
Besides, how long do you really want to stay in an excessively corporate environment?
Your day-to-day…
- Put in place efficient solutions for top-of-the-line clients
- Develop new solutions to existing problems: your work will have a real impact on the client's business
- Move from SCRUM to refinement, sprint-by-sprint. With the team, bring Agile Methodology to a whole new level.
- Integrating eCommerce platforms with PIM and ERP systems, applying new merchandising technologies – rethinking eCommerce, basically
- Apply your unique knowledge to a new intellectual challenge, while collaborating well with your team.
You are…
- Creative and logical, a rare combination, appreciated at Absolunet
- A collaborator brimming with ideas and initiative
- Passionate about new technologies and new ideas
- An excellent developer
- Able to handle a manual espresso machine (worst-case scenario: the Scrum Master will show you how to work it)
You are seeking…
- To work with a team that will bring you to surpass yourself
- To work on stimulating projects with well-known brands
- An environment in which family values and work-life balance are rooted in the company's DNA
- To learn something new every week and with every project you are involved in
- To upgrade your skill set through training sessions – which you can then share with the team by holding a Lunch & Learn
- A community of people just like you, who know how to celebrate wins and embrace life
PIM Experts
Scrum Master
UX/UI Experts
eCommerce Experts
Digital Personalization Experts
Questions? Concerns?
Maybe you'd like to confirm something or just apply for an unadvertised position?
Have a chat with us – nothing official, just people talking shop.
Write: [email protected]