Men and women may compete together in the doubles competition. The singles competition is held over two days with each team racing twice on each day. The doubles competition is held over one day with each team racing only twice total. The team with the lowest composite time wins. Lugers start in a sitting position on their sled and push off from two fixed handles at the top of the start ramp.
Timing begins when the athlete crosses an automatic electronic line at the bottom of the start ramp.
The run is finished when the team crosses the timing light at the bottom of the course. The athletes must cross the finish line in contact with their sled. Lugers use spiked gloves to paddle at the top of the course and gain speed. The athlete steers by pressing against the runners with his or her legs, and by maneuvering his or her shoulders. In the doubles competition, the heavier athlete usually lies in front.