Section 5: Rules of Play
5.1 Competition Format
- Singles: 4 runs over 2 days (2 runs per day). Combined cumulative time determines the final ranking.
- Doubles: 2 runs over 1 day. Combined cumulative time determines the ranking.
- Team Relay: 1 run per sled, raced sequentially in a single session. Combined cumulative time of all three sleds determines the national team ranking.
5.2 Start Procedure
Athletes sit on the sled at the start position, feet on the ice, gripping the fixed start handles. When the green start light illuminates, the athlete has 30 seconds to initiate the run. The start involves rocking the sled for momentum, releasing the handles, and paddling with spiked gloves on the ice surface for 30–50 m. The start time is electronically measured from the first timing beam and is a critical competitive factor — a 0.01-second difference at the start can translate to 0.03 seconds at the finish.
5.3 Steering and Technique
Luge athletes steer exclusively through body movements — there is no mechanical steering mechanism. Techniques include:
- Calf pressure: Pressing the left or right calf against the sled's runner bracket (kufen) to flex the runner and initiate a turn.
- Shoulder pressure: Shifting upper body weight to one side to adjust the sled's trajectory.
- Head position: Keeping the head back and chin tucked for aerodynamic efficiency. Raising the head to look creates drag and is avoided except briefly to orient.
The optimal riding position is completely flat with the body streamlined to minimise air resistance. Arms are held tight against the body, and toes are pointed.
5.4 Team Relay Mechanics
In the Team Relay, the women's singles slider goes first, followed by the men's singles slider, then the doubles team. As each sled crosses the finish line, it activates an electronic touch pad that opens a start gate for the next sled at the top of the track. The next athlete must start within a designated time window after the gate opens. The nation's final time is the cumulative total of all three runs.
5.5 Contact with the Sled
Athletes must maintain contact with the sled throughout the run. Separation from the sled (e.g., falling off) results in disqualification. If the athlete separates but immediately regains the sled and continues, the run may be completed but the time is typically uncompetitive. An athlete who cannot complete a run safely must attempt to bring the sled to a stop against a track wall.