Long track speed skating relies heavily on precise balance, timing, and body positioning to convert strength and endurance into optimal speed.
ISU Skating, the official site of the International Skating Union, explains the technical aspects of this sport featured at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
Unlike running, speed skaters generate forward motion by pushing sideways. Maintaining a low body position with sharp knee and hip angles helps reduce air resistance and increases pushing efficiency. Skaters must carefully balance their weight and time each push precisely to sustain speed.
Cornering requires a distinct technique from skating on straightaways. Skaters cross their right foot over the left and apply force on different edges of their blades for control and acceleration through turns. In fact, many athletes accelerate more effectively around corners than on straight sections.
Prominent skaters such as Casey Dawson and Francesca Lollobrigida demonstrate these techniques well. For example, Lollobrigida, the Olympic 3000m champion, shows textbook form in cornering. Dutch two-time Olympic 1500m champion Kjeld Nuis has described a good performance as one that appears relaxed rather than wild, emphasizing the importance of composure and balance.
