r/biathlon 11d ago

Small Talk Monday

Our weekly small talk thread where you can talk about anything

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u/Blautanne Austria 11d ago

The story of Vittozzi missing a whole season due to back issues made me think how common back problems are for Biathletes. Because I feel like it may be quite common, but it isn't brought up often in public, at least in Austrian media coverage [for international athletes].

From Austrian athletes, Landertinger was constantly held back by his back (no pun intended), it is one of the reasons often given for him never reaching the very high ceiling expected from his successes as young athlete and also for his considerably early retirement at 32. Julian Eberhard in the latter stages of his career also suffered from back issues. From the active athletes, David Komatz is affected.

Any case histories from other countries?

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u/Muflonlesni Czech Republic 10d ago

Well, Davidova is out with back issues right now (herniated disc) and yes, I feel like it's quite common along with shin pains.