rodelning

Rodelning, also known as luge, is a winter sliding sport. Competitors race down an icy track on a small sled, lying on their backs with their feet pointing forward. The sled is steered by shifting body weight and subtle movements of the legs.

The sport originated in the Swiss Alps, with the first organized races taking place in the late 19th century. Today, luge is a popular international sport governed by the International Luge Federation (FIL). It is an Olympic sport, first included in the 1964 Winter Olympics.

There are two main disciplines: singles and doubles. In singles, one athlete competes, while in doubles, two athletes share a single sled. Athletes aim for the fastest possible time down the track, which can reach speeds exceeding 130 kilometers per hour (80 mph). Safety is paramount, and athletes wear specialized helmets and suits.

Tracks are specifically designed and constructed for luge, featuring banked turns and straight sections to test the athletes' skill and courage. The sport requires a precise combination of speed, control, and nerve. It is a test of individual skill and concentration against the clock and the challenging track.