Physical Endurance, Somatic Indices and Swimming Technique Parameters as Determinants of Front Crawl Swimming Speed at Short Distances in Young Swimmers

Abstract

Introduction: Appropriate swimming techniques and anaerobic capacity have a strong influence on factors related to performance in young swimmers. This study evaluated the factors attributed to performance in sprint front crawl swimmers. Aim of the study: To investigate the level of aerobic and anaerobic component of physical endurance, swimming technique and somatic indices, as well as to determine their influence on young swimmers’ all-out sprint front crawl swimming. Methods: The group of 26 swimmers (age: 16.1±1.09 years) was subject to anthropometric measurements including lean body mass (LBM), total body length (TBL) and arm span (AS). Each individual was subject to five laboratory tests and 2 swimming tests: alactic anaerobic test (vertical jump test – CMJ), incremental tests for assessment of arms (¦O 2 max AR) and legs aerobic capacity (¦O 2 max LG) in two different tests, one-minute anaerobic endurance tests for arms (60sAR) and legs (60sLG). Swimming include all-out tests at the distance of 25 and 100 meters. Results: The biometric (TBL, AS) and body structure (LBM) indices level was in general determining swimming speed at high and average level. The maximal power obtained in anaerobic endurance test with legs (PmxLG) and total work in the CMJ (counter movement jump) test had the strongest influence on 25 and 100 meters swimming speeds. At both distances speed statistically significantly correlated also with the swimming technique parameters: stroke rate (SR), index of coordination (IdC) and propulsion phases (PL+PS). Conclusions: Research on young swimmers confirmed essential influence of energy obtaining mechanisms from alactic, glycolitic and aerobic sources on swimming speed at short distances. Body size and swimming technique parameters had also significant influence on swimming results.