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Yang X, Wu J, Tang Y, Ren Z. Effects of anodic transcranial direct current stimulation combined with physical training on the performance of elite swimmers. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1383491. [PMID: 38665598 PMCID: PMC11043593 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1383491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) has been used to improve athletic performance in various populations; however, its role in improving performance in elite athletes is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a-tDCS on athletic performance in elite athletes. Methods We used a single-blind, randomized controlled experimental design and recruited 24 national-level freestyle swimmers from China. All athletes were randomly divided into two groups; the experimental group underwent a-tDCS (current 2 mA for 20 min) combined with physical training, and the control group underwent a-tDCS sham stimulation combined with physical training. The physical training program was identical in the experimental and control groups. The intervention period was 6 weeks, with five weekly sessions of 110 min each, consisting of 20 min of a-tDCS and 90 min of physical training. Base strength, explosive strength, aerobic endurance, and anaerobic endurance were measured in the athletes before and after the intervention. Results The results were as follows. 1) Basic strength: There was a significant improvement in 5RM pull-ups in the experimental and control groups before and after the intervention (p < 0.05). 2) Explosive strength: There was a significant improvement in vertical jump and swimming start distance into the water in the experimental and control groups before and after the intervention (p < 0.05). 3) Aerobic endurance: There was no significant improvement in the experimental and control groups before and after the intervention. 4) Anaerobic endurance: There was a significant improvement in 400 m running performance in the experimental and control groups before and after the intervention (p < 0.05). Conclusion Compared to physical training alone, a-tDCS combined with physical training can better improve the athletic performance of high-level swimmers, especially in basic strength, explosive strength, and aerobic endurance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xipeng Yang
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinlong Wu
- College of Physical Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yucheng Tang
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhanbing Ren
- College of Physical Education, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
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de Jesus K, de Jesus K, Mourão L, Roesler H, Fernandes RJ, Vaz MAP, Vilas-Boas JP, Machado LJ. Swimmers' Effective Actions during the Backstroke Start Technique. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7723. [PMID: 37765782 PMCID: PMC10538122 DOI: 10.3390/s23187723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of the external forces of swimming starts has revealed how swimmers propel themselves out of the block, but data should be properly interpreted to fully understand force-generation mechanisms. This study aimed to assess horizontal and vertical forces in the backstroke start based on swimmers' structural and propulsive actions. Firstly, a simulated structural force was estimated by two transient backstroke-start inter-segmental realistic body positions: a maximally tucked position and an extended one (just before the hands-off and the take-off, respectively). Secondly, 10 competitive backstroke swimmers performed four 15 m maximal backstroke starts with the external forces estimated. Thirdly, the simulated structural force was subtracted from raw horizontal and vertical force data, measured between hands-off and take-off instants, resulting in the propulsive forces. The application of the algorithm has evidenced that backstrokers' horizontal and vertical simulated-structural-force components contributed to ~40% of total force during start propulsion (~0.2-0.12 s before the take-off), followed by the propulsive horizontal force increment and a progressive vertical component reduction (~0.05 s) with ~20° take-off angle. Based on these findings, researchers and coaches can better guide swimmers as to the proper mechanical strategies to achieve effectiveness in the backstroke start, and to improve direct transfer of resistance training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla de Jesus
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Human Studies Development Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Federal University of Amazonas, Manaus 69077-000, AM, Brazil
| | - Kelly de Jesus
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Human Studies Development Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Federal University of Amazonas, Manaus 69077-000, AM, Brazil
| | - Luís Mourão
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Polytechnic Institute of Porto School of Engineering, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal
| | - Hélio Roesler
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Aquatic Biomechanics Research Laboratory, Health and Sports Science Centre, University of the State of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88080-350, SC, Brazil
| | - Ricardo J. Fernandes
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Mário A. P. Vaz
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Management, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Vilas-Boas
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Leandro J. Machado
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport, Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal; (K.d.J.); (L.M.); (H.R.); (R.J.F.); (J.P.V.-B.); (L.J.M.)
- Porto Biomechanics Laboratory, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
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Santos CC, Barbosa TM, Marinho DA, Costa MJ. Association between the dry-land strength & power and the kick start kinetics in elite male and female swimmers. Sports Biomech 2022:1-11. [PMID: 36579929 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2022.2158921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this research was to determine the association between dry-land exercises and the start kinetics in elite swimmers. Fourteen swimmers (eight males and six females) included in a national team took part in this study. A fixed smith-machine was used to measure the maximal full squat strength (Smax). The height of squat (SJ) and countermovement (CMJ) jumps were collected with a contact mat. The ground reaction force of the kick starts in the three-dimensional axis (Fz horizontal; Fy, vertical; Fx, lateral) was obtained by an instrumented force plate in the starting block. Overall, the Smax showed a high and significant association with Fz (r = 0.60) and Fy (r = 0.87). Moderate and significant associations were found between Fy and SJ (r = 0.51) and CMJ (r = 0.57). While Smax in males showed high association with Fy (r = 0.77), the Smax for females showed greater association with Fz (r = 0.84). As conclusion, the full back squat seems to be the dry-land exercise with higher association with the kick start kinetics. While in males the full squat defines better the vertical component, for females it defines the horizontal one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina C Santos
- Department of Sport Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Sport Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, Guarda, Portugal
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Tiago M Barbosa
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, Covilhã, Portugal
- Department of Sport Sciences, Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal
| | - Daniel A Marinho
- Department of Sport Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, CIDESD, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Mário J Costa
- Centre of Research, Education, Innovation and Intervention in Sport (CIFI2D), Porto Biomechanics Laboratory (LABIOMEP-UP), Faculty of Sport, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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West R, Lorimer A, Pearson S, Keogh JWL. The Relationship Between Undulatory Underwater Kick Performance Determinants and Underwater Velocity in Competitive Swimmers: A Systematic Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:95. [PMID: 35900641 PMCID: PMC9334501 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00485-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Undulatory underwater swimming (UUS) has become an integral component of the start and turn phases in competitive swimming allowing higher velocities than can be achieved swimming at the surface. An understanding of the most important determinants for UUS performance and how these can be optimised to different swimmers is poorly understood. Objective The aim of this systematic review was to systematically assess the current peer-reviewed literature on the relationship between UUS performance determinants and underwater velocity in competitive swimmers. Methods An electronic search using AusSportMed, Embase, PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming was performed. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using a biomechanics-specific checklist developed by Hindle and colleagues (Sports Med Open. 5(1):49, 2019. 10.1186/s40798-019-0222-z). Results Twenty-five studies met the eligibility criteria. While UUS velocity was nearly perfectly related (r > 0.90) to foot resultant acceleration and kick frequency, several other biomechanical factors were also significant correlates. UUS velocity and frequency were typically higher in high-performance swimmers and during prone versus dorsal positions. UUS velocity, kick frequency and kick amplitude were also significantly correlated with high angular velocities of the hip, knee and ankle joints and knee range of motion. Conclusion While there appears to be evidence supporting some performance variables to be related to UUS, future research should examine how to optimise the kinematic and kinetic characteristics with respect to the imposed task constraints and organism constraints between swimmers. Additional research should also investigate the effect of biomechanically informed interventions to improve UUS performance. Registration Open Science Framework.
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McKenzie MR, McKean MR, Doyle DP, Hogarth LW, Burkett BJ. Swimming performance, physiology, and post-activation performance enhancement following dryland transition phase warmup: A systematic review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273248. [PMID: 35980952 PMCID: PMC9387820 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In swimming, the period between the end of the swimming warmup and the beginning of competition is critical to performance, here termed the transition phase. Several options are available during this phase, necessitating a systematic review to understand if optimal strategies exist. Objectives To synthesise and critically evaluate the current literature investigating land-based warmup interventions on subsequent performance in competitive swimmers. Methods A search of three electronic databases (PubMed, EBSCO SPORTDiscus and Web of Science) was conducted to identify original studies until February 2022. Selection criteria dictated that (i) a control condition was used, (ii) participants were ≥ 15 years of age, (iii) a pool-based warmup was done prior to the land-based warmup. A total of 25 articles met the selection criteria. Results Reducing the transition phase duration by at least half led to consistently faster time-trial times of between 1.1–1.5% for all included studies. Passive warmups using clothing interventions resulted in mostly faster time-trial’s of 0.4–0.8% with increases in skin temperature frequent, though little change occurred in core temperature. The methodology of passive respiratory warmups were vastly different with positive time-trial’s effects ranging between 0.9–1.1% for two studies, though one reported no meaningful difference. Active warmups led to consistently faster time-trial’s between 0.7–0.9%, though the unpinning factors are not clear. Warmups which combined passive and active options frequently led to faster time-trial’s between 0.8–3%. Upper and combined limb post-activation performance enhancement led to mostly unfavourable time-trial changes. Lower limb exclusive protocols results were inconsistent, with limited beneficial effects on time-trial or start performance reported following plyometric protocols. However, there does appear merit in heavier loaded lower limb protocols. Conclusion Each of a reduced transition phase length, and passive, active or combination warmup have demonstrated improvements in swimming performance. Conversely, PAPE protocols should be used with caution, especially when including the upper limbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max R. McKenzie
- Queensland Academy of Sport, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Mark R. McKean
- Queensland Academy of Sport, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Danielle P. Doyle
- Queensland Academy of Sport, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Luke W. Hogarth
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Brendan J. Burkett
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
- Swimming Australia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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6
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Zeng Z, Jiang Q. Design of an Assistant Decision Support System for Sports Training Based on Association Rules. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/ijdst.307959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In order to quantitatively evaluate the effect of sports training, it is necessary to track the dynamic characteristics of sports by using sports training aided decision support system. When the existing sports training assistant decision support system extracts the features of decision association rules, some redundant features will appear when establishing the global association rules, which increases the amount and difficulty of data calculation and affects the effect of assistant decision support. On this basis, the data fusion of assistant decision support information is carried out, and the optimal assistant decision support scheme is obtained according to the fusion results. The experimental results show that the design system is superior to the existing auxiliary decision-making system in motion recognition rate, motion result accuracy rate, and decision-making accuracy rate, which can provide users with auxiliary decision-making support for sports training and has good practical application effect.
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7
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Born DP, Schönfelder M, Logan O, Olstad BH, Romann M. Performance Development of European Swimmers Across the Olympic Cycle. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:894066. [PMID: 35755613 PMCID: PMC9231649 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.894066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of the study were to (1) quantify the performance development of race times and key performance indicators of European swimmers across the last Olympic cycle (from 2016 to 2021) and (2) provide reference values for long-course swimming pool events for both sexes from 50 m to 1,500 m including butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, freestyle, and individual medley. Individual events from the 2016 and 2021 European swimming championships were included. Specifically, 246 men (age: 24.2 ± 3.4 years, FINA points: 890 ± 40) and 256 women races (age: 24.2 ± 4, FINA points: 879 ± 38) of the finalists were recorded and key performance indicators and split times analyzed. Performance differences in finalists of the 2016 and 2021 European championships were determined by an independent t-test and Cohen's d effect size. Reference values were retrieved from 2021 European championship finalists and are provided for all key performance indicators. Race times improved significantly (P < 0.05) or showed moderate (d = 0.5–1) to large effect sizes (d > 1) in 14 (men) and 6 (women) out of 16 events. Improvements were primarily evident in 100 m and 200 m events for males, as well as BR and sprint events for female swimmers. While start times improved in 15 (men) and 14 (women) events, turn times remained inconclusive in both sexes. Generally, breakout distances increased. Clean swimming velocities were faster in 12 (men) and 5 (women) events. In particular, for alternating swimming strokes, i.e., backstroke and freestyle, effect sizes indicated improved swimming efficiency with an inverse relationship between reduced stroke rate and increased distance per stroke. Coaches and performance analysts may use the present reference values as comparative data for race analyses and to specifically prepare swimmers for the various race sections. Data on the performance development should be used to analyze swimmers' potential and set goals for the various events and the next Olympic cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis-Peter Born
- Swiss Swimming Federation, Section for High-Performance Sports, Bern, Switzerland.,Department for Elite Sport, Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen, Magglingen, Switzerland
| | - Michel Schönfelder
- Department for Elite Sport, Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen, Magglingen, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Logan
- British Swimming Federation, Sportpark, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Bjørn Harald Olstad
- Department of Physical Performance, Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Oslo, Norway
| | - Michael Romann
- Department for Elite Sport, Swiss Federal Institute of Sport Magglingen, Magglingen, Switzerland
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8
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The effects of post-activation performance enhancement and different warm-up protocols on swim start performance. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9038. [PMID: 35641619 PMCID: PMC9156704 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13003-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the effects of post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) on swim start performance and lower body power performance after different warm-up protocols. Ten male national-level swimmers performed three different warm-ups: (i) a swim-specific warm-up (SW, control protocol); (ii) PAPE (an experimental protocol); and (iii) SW followed by PAPE (SW + PAPE, an experimental protocol). PAPE consisted of performing three series of 5 drop jumps. A repeated-measures ANOVA showed significant differences between the protocols in the swim start performance (F = 8.89; P < 0.001) and countermovement jump (F = 2.22; P = 0.047). SW + PAPE induced greater improvements in swim start time to 15 m (ES = − 0.47, P = 0.017) and entry time (ES = − 1.83, P < 0.001), the countermovement jump reactive strength index modified (ES = − 1.83, P < 0.001), eccentric rate of force development (ES = 0.69, P = 0.047), and index of explosive strength (ES = 0.94, P = 0.005) compared to SW. The current findings of this study indicate that the drop jump PAPE protocol, in addition to SW, is an effective tool because it could improve athletes' capacity for a more efficient swim start and their countermovement jump performance. Furthermore, the results of this study indicate that PAPE induced by drop jumps could be time-efficient and practically applicable in facilities with limited resources.
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Ruiz-Navarro JJ, Gay A, Cuenca-Fernández F, López-Belmonte Ó, Morales-Ortíz E, López-Contreras G, Arellano R. The relationship between tethered swimming, anaerobic critical velocity, dry-land strength, and swimming performance. INT J PERF ANAL SPOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/24748668.2022.2072561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús J. Ruiz-Navarro
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Gay
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco Cuenca-Fernández
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Óscar López-Belmonte
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Esther Morales-Ortíz
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Gracia López-Contreras
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Raúl Arellano
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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10
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Ruiz-Navarro JJ, Cuenca-Fernández F, Sanders R, Arellano R. The determinant factors of undulatory underwater swimming performance: A systematic review. J Sports Sci 2022; 40:1243-1254. [PMID: 35384796 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2022.2061259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The prominence of undulatory underwater swimming (UUS) has been clearly observed during recent international events. Improvement of this phase is important for overall performance. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the key factors that modulate UUS performance and provide coaches and sports science practitioners with valuable and practical information to optimise it. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched up to 14 October 2021. Studies involving competitive swimmers and which included UUS performance assessment were considered. Methodological quality assessment was conducted for the included articles. From the 193 articles screened, 15 articles were included. There was a substantial body of research conducted on kicking frequency, vertical toe and body wave velocity, angular velocity of the joints, distance per kick, joint amplitudes and mobility, and body position in UUS performance. However, further investigation is required for muscle activation and muscle strength influence. The results from this review contribute to understanding of how to optimise UUS performance, identifying the key aspects that must be addressed during training. Specifically, the caudal momentum transfer should be maximised, the upbeat duration reduced, and the frequency that best suits swimmers' characteristics should be identified individually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús J Ruiz-Navarro
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco Cuenca-Fernández
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ross Sanders
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Raúl Arellano
- Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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11
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What Is the Optimal Strength Training Load to Improve Swimming Performance? A Randomized Trial of Male Competitive Swimmers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182211770. [PMID: 34831529 PMCID: PMC8620783 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of high, moderate, and low resistance training volume-load of maximum strength training on muscle strength and swimming performance in competitive swimmers. Thirty-three male swimmers were randomly allocated to high (age = 16.5 ± 0.30 years), moderate (age = 16.1 ± 0.32 years) and a low resistance training volume-load group (age = 15.9 ± 0.31). This study was carried out in mid-season (January to March). Pre and post strength (e.g., repetition maximum [1RM] leg extension and bench press tests), swimming (25, 50 m front-crawl), start (speed, time, distance) and turn (time of turn) performance tests were conducted. Our findings revealed a large main effect of time for 1RM bench press: d = 1.38; 1RM leg extension: d = 1.55, and for 25 (d = 1.12), and 50 m (d = 1.97) front-crawl, similarly for start and turn performance (d = 1.28-1.46). However, no significant Group × Time interactions were shown in all strength swimming performances, start and turn tests (p > 0.05). In conclusion, low training loads have been shown to elicit the same results as moderate, and high training loads protocol. Therefore, this study shows evidence that the addition of low training volume-loads as a regular part of a maximal strength training regime will elicit improvements in strength and swimming performance.
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12
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Thng S, Pearson S, Keogh JWL. Pushing up or pushing out-an initial investigation into horizontal- versus vertical-force training on swimming start performance: a pilot study. PeerJ 2021; 9:e10937. [PMID: 33665034 PMCID: PMC7912599 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.10937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The block phase in the swimming start requires a quick reaction to the starting signal and a large take-off velocity that is primarily horizontal in direction. Due to the principle of specificity of training, there is a potential benefit of performing a greater proportion of horizontal force production exercises in a swimmers' dry-land resistance training sessions. Therefore, the purpose of this pilot study was to provide an insight into the effects of a horizontal- (HF) vs vertical-force (VF) training intervention on swim start performance. Methods Eleven competitive swimmers (six males (age 20.9 ± 1.8 years, body mass 77.3 ± 9.7 kg, height 1.78 ± 0.05 m) and five females (age 21.4 ± 2.0 years, body mass 67.5 ± 7.4 kg, height 1.69 ± 0.05 m)) completed 2 weekly sessions of either a horizontal- or vertical-force focused resistance training programme for 8 weeks. Squat jump force-time characteristics and swim start kinetic and kinematic parameters were collected pre- and post-intervention. Results Across the study duration, the swimmers completed an average of nine swimming sessions per week with an average weekly swim volume of 45.5 ± 17.7 km (HF group) and 53 ± 20.0 km (VF group), but little practice of the swim start per week (n = 9). Within-group analyses indicated a significant increase in predicted one repetition maximum (1RM) hip thrust strength in the HF group, as well as significant increases in grab resultant peak force but reductions in resultant peak force of the block phase for the VF group. No significant between-group differences in predicted 1RM hip thrust and back squat strength, squat jump force-time and swim start performance measures were observed after 8 weeks of training. Significant correlations in the change scores of five block kinetic variables to time to 5 m were observed, whereby increased block kinetic outputs were associated with a reduced time to 5 m. This may be indicative of individual responses to the different training programmes. Discussion The results of this current study have been unable to determine whether a horizontal- or vertical-force training programme enhances swim start performance after an 8-week training intervention. Some reasons for the lack of within and between group effects may reflect the large volume of concurrent training and the relative lack of any deliberate practice of the swim start. Larger samples and longer training duration may be required to determine whether significant differences occur between these training approaches. Such research should also look to investigate how a reduction in the concurrent training loads and/or an increase in the deliberate practice of the swim start may influence the potential changes in swim start performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Thng
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Academy of Sport, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Justin W L Keogh
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Sports Performance Research Centre New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.,Cluster for Health Improvement, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.,Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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Thng S, Pearson S, Rathbone E, Keogh JWL. The prediction of swim start performance based on squat jump force-time characteristics. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9208. [PMID: 32547864 PMCID: PMC7271885 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depending on the stroke and distances of the events, swim starts have been estimated to account for 0.8% to 26.1% of the overall race time, with the latter representing the percentage in a 50 m sprint front crawl event (Cossor & Mason, 2001). However, it is still somewhat unclear what are the key physiological characteristics underpinning swim start performance. The primary aim of this study was to develop a multiple regression model to determine key lower body force-time predictors using the squat jump for swim start performance as assessed by time to 5 m and 15 m in national and international level swimmers. A secondary aim was to determine if any differences exist between males and females in jump performance predictors for swim start performance. Methods A total of 38 males (age 21 ± 3.1 years, height 1.83 ± 0.08 m, body mass 76.7 ± 10.2 kg) and 34 females (age 20.1 ± 3.2 years, height 1.73 ± 0.06 m, body mass 64.8 ± 8.4 kg) who had competed at either an elite (n = 31) or national level (n = 41) participated in this study. All tests were performed on the same day, with participants performing three bodyweight squat jumps on a force platform, followed by three swim starts using their main swimming stroke. Swim start performance was quantified via time to 5 m and 15 m using an instrumented starting block. Results Stepwise multiple linear regression with quadratic fitting identified concentric impulse and concentric impulse2 as statistically significant predictors for time to 5 m (R2 = 0.659) in males. With time to 15 m, concentric impulse, age and concentric impulse2 were statistically significant predictors for males (R2 = 0.807). A minimum concentric impulse of 200–230 N.s appears required for faster times to 5 m and 15 m, with any additional impulse production not being associated with a reduction in swim start times for most male swimmers. Concentric impulse, Reactive strength index modified and concentric mean power were identified as statistically significant predictors for female swimmers to time to 5 m (R2 = 0.689). Variables that were statistically significant predictors of time to 15 m in females were concentric impulse, body mass, concentric rate of power development and Reactive strength index modified (R2 = 0.841). Discussion The results of this study highlight the importance of lower body power and strength for swim start performance, although being able to produce greater than 200 or 230 N.s concentric impulse in squat jump did not necessarily increase swim start performance over 5 m and 15 m, respectively. Swimmers who can already generate greater levels of concentric impulse may benefit more from improving their rate of force development and/or technical aspects of the swim start performance. The sex-related differences in key force-time predictors suggest that male and female swimmers may require individualised strength and conditioning programs and regular monitoring of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Thng
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Academy of Sport, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Evelyne Rathbone
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Justin W L Keogh
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Sports Performance Research Centre New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.,Cluster for Health Improvement, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.,Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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