What are the start rules in skeleton?
B · Beginner · The race · 3 of 4Once the starter clears the track, the athlete has 30 seconds to trigger the timing. They step on the start block without crossing its back edge with the whole shoe, then push the sled in the grooves. No one may help after the athlete leaves the block. A quiet zone behind the block is reserved for the athlete.
How it works
- Quiet zone: behind the block, for the athlete, one coach and the jury.
- Start block: must be stepped on; the back edge may not be crossed with the whole shoe.
- 30 seconds: to trigger the timing after the clear signal.
- Grooves: at least 17 mm wide and 16 mm deep, set by the jury.
- Start time: taken at 50 m.
- No help: from anyone once the athlete leaves the block.
- Shoes: commercial shoes with brush spikes; no shoe covers.
- Push-start facilities: not on race days at major events.
The glossary has the start, the start grooves, the push start, the spikes, the track sweeping and the intermediate time.
Tricky cases
How long does a skeleton athlete have to start?
30 seconds, half the bobsleigh limit.
Can a coach push the sled for the athlete?
No. No help is allowed after the athlete leaves the block.
Can an athlete wear shoe covers for speed?
No. Shoe coverings are banned.
Who may be in the zone behind the block?
The athlete, one coach and the jury.
Why the rule exists
A short start window keeps the event moving and fair. Allowing no help after the block makes the push the athlete's alone.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Skeleton | 30-second start window | IBSF 10.6.8 |
| Bobsleigh | 60 seconds | IBSF Bobsleigh 10.6.8 |
| Major events | No push-start facility on race days | IBSF 10.6.18 |
From the rule book
IBSF, International Rules Skeleton (September 2026), articles 10.4, 10.6.6, 10.6.8, 10.6.18 and 10.16.2. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the IBSF International Rules, issued each season.