###### Abstract  
Limited research has explored the impact of balance training on young alpine skiers, despite its recognized importance in the sport. This study evaluated the effects of a 10-week dry-land balance training program on the balance and skiing technique of skiers aged 9-11 years. The program employed five training modalities: neuromuscular, plyometric, core stability, proprioceptive, and equipment-based balance training. Thirty participants were divided into experimental and control groups based on their initial SKI IQ scores. The assessments included static balance (BTS P-Walk), explosive power (BTS G-Walk), and on-snow metrics (SKI IQ; balance, pressure, and edging) using CARV technology. The statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in the experimental group for the SKI IQ (F = 13.239; \(p\) = 0.001; \(\eta^{2}\) = 0.321) in terms of the balance metric (F = 4.800; \(p\) = 0.037) and pressure metric (F = 8.084; \(p\) = 0.008), and for the static balance parameters, such as mediolateral stability in a two-legged stance (F = 4.304; \(p\) = 0.047; \(\eta^{2}\) = 0.133) and anteroposterior stability in eyes-closed conditions (F = 14.249; \(p\) = 0.001; \(\eta^{2}\) = 0.337). The single-leg stance stability and explosive force (F = 6.08; \(p\) = 0.02) also showed marked enhancements. The edging performance, however, showed no significant change. This study underscores the value of balance training for enhancing young skiers' performance metrics and highlights wearable technology as an effective tool for real-time feedback. Integrating balance-focused programs into alpine skiing preparation can boost performance. balance training; dry-land training; alpine ski training; ski technique +
Footnote †: journal: Applied sciences  
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Footnote 0: _Article_  
coordination, agility, and flexibility [2; 3; 4]. In addition, the environmental challenges of high altitudes and low temperatures during training and competition further complicate the demands placed on athletes [5]. The physiological requirements of alpine skiing reflect its intense physical demands. Characterized by efforts lasting between 45 s and 2.5 min, alpine skiing places considerable strain on an athlete's body, necessitating well-developed motor skills, aerobic and anaerobic capacities, and physical endurance [6; 7]. Variations in performance over time may stem from changes in techniques, regulations, equipment, or training regimens, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the sport [3]. Consequently, optimizing performance requires a comprehensive approach to physical training that focuses on aerobic and anaerobic capacity, muscular strength, and advanced motor skills [8; 9; 10; 11]. In recent decades, alpine skiing has undergone substantial material and infrastructure advancements. These include firmer and more compact artificial snow surfaces and modern ski designs that have elevated the sport's technical and physical demands [8]. Additionally, the introduction of \"rapid gate\" poles has contributed to increased velocity and dynamism, resulting in significant morpho-functional implications for athletes [8]. As a result, earlier research may not fully capture the relevance of modern technologies and equipment, warranting updated studies that align with current conditions. An enhanced understanding of the factors influencing performance in alpine skiing can serve as a foundation for improving athlete readiness [9]. While our knowledge of skiing biomechanics has advanced significantly in recent years [10], the physical, technical, and tactical aspects determining skiing performance still remain partially uncertain [11]. To meet the extensive physical demands of alpine skiing, athletes undergo comprehensive training regimens that focus on core strength and stability, power, aerobic and anaerobic endurance, coordination, motor skills, and mobility. Supplementary exercises often derive from other sports, illustrating the breadth of the methods used to enhance overall performance [12], as cited by [PERSON] et al. [13].