Relationship of muscle strength, power, and leg flexibility with the swim start of the butterfly style

Abstract

This study aims to explore the relationship between leg muscle strength, leg power, and leg flexibility with the butterfly swimming start ability. A descriptive method with correlational study technique was used with a population consisting of Swimming Association athletes, and a sample of 12 male athletes who met the age and swimming ability criteria set. Data were collected through surveys, tests, and measurements, then analyzed using the product moment correlation technique and test-retest for validity and reliability. The results showed a significant relationship between leg muscle strength, leg power, and leg flexibility with the butterfly swimming start ability, with leg power showing the strongest relationship. Specifically, leg muscle strength had a correlation of 66.67%, leg power had a correlation of 83.33%, and leg flexibility had a correlation of 50.00% with the butterfly swimming start ability. These findings provide valuable insights for coaches and athletes in designing more effective training programs to enhance butterfly swimming start ability. Keywords: strength, power, flexibility, swimming start