Adolescent Competitive Swimmers Research Articles

Sleep Quality in Greek Adolescent Swimmers.

The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between sleep quality and functional indices, swimming distance and gender in adolescent competitive swimmers. Forty-eight adolescent swimmers (boys, n = 22, 15.7 ± 1.0 years and girls, n = 26, 15.1 ± 0.8 years) were included in our study. They were assessed for handgrip strength, respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function, answered a Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI), and recorded their anthropometric and morphological characteristics and training load for the last four weeks. The results showed differences between swimming distance and chest circumference difference, between maximal inhalation and exhalation (Δchest) (p = 0.033), PSQI score (p < 0.001), and sleep quality domains for "cannot breathe comfortably" (p = 0.037) and "have pain" (p = 0.003). Binary logistic regression (chi-square = 37.457, p = 0.001) showed that the variables Δchest (p = 0.038, 95% CI: 1.05-6.07) and PSQI score (p = 0.048, 95% CI: 0.1-1.07) remained independent predictors of the swim distance groups. Girls had a lower percentage of predicted values for the maximal inspiratory pressure (p < 0.001), maximal expiratory pressure (p = 0.027), forced expiratory volume within the first second (p = 0.026), forced vital capacity (p = 0.008) and sleep quality domains for "cough or snore loudly" (p = 0.032) compared to boys. A regression analysis showed that the sleep quality score was explained by the six independent variables: respiratory muscle strength (t = 2.177, β = 0.164, p = 0.035), Δchest (t = -2.353, β = -0.17, p = 0.023), distance (t = -5.962, β = -0.475, p < 0.001), total body water (t = -7.466, β = -0.687, p < 0.001), lean body mass (t = -3.120, β = -0.434, p = 0.003), and handgrip (t = 7.752, β = 1.136, p < 0.001). Our findings demonstrate that sleep quality in adolescent swimmers is a multifactorial result of morphometric characteristics, strength and respiratory function.

Effects of post-exercise cold-water immersion on performance and perceptive outcomes of competitive adolescent swimmers.

To evaluate the effects of repeated use of cold-water immersion (CWI) during a training week on performance and perceptive outcomes in competitive adolescent swimmers. This randomized-crossover study included 20 athletes, who received each intervention [CWI (14 ± 1°C), thermoneutral water immersion (TWI) (27 ± 1°C) as placebo, and passive recovery (PAS)] three times a week between the land-based resistance training and swim training. The interventions were performed in a randomized order with a 1-week wash-out period. We tested athletes before and after each intervention week regarding swim (100m freestyle sprints) and functional performance (flexibility, upper and lower body power, and shoulder proprioception). We monitored athlete's perceptions (well-being, heaviness, tiredness, discomfort and pain) during testing sessions using a 5-item questionnaire. Athlete preferences regarding the interventions were assessed at the end of the study. We used generalized linear mixed models and generalized estimating equations for continuous and categorical variables, respectively (intervention x time). We found a time effect for swim performance (p = .01) in which, regardless the intervention, all athletes improved sprint time at post-intervention compared to baseline. There was an intervention effect for pain (p = .04) and tiredness (p = .04), but with no significant post-hoc comparisons. We found no significant effects for other outcomes. All athletes reported a preference for CWI or TWI in relation to PAS. The repeated use of CWI throughout a training week did not impact functional or swim performance outcomes of competitive adolescent swimmers. Perceptive outcomes were also similar across interventions; however, athletes indicated a preference for both CWI and TWI.

The influence of anthropometric characteristics on swimming speed in adolescent swimmers

Swimming speed depends on anthropometric characteristics, biomechanics factors, physical fitness, physiological components, and genetics. Therefore, this study aimed to identify which anthropometric characteristics influence swimming speed in adolescent competitive swimmers. Thirty-eight male swimmers (aged 16.94 ± 0.8 years; body height: 178.3 ± 5.4 cm; body weight 67.7 ± 9.6 kg) and thirty-five female swimmers (aged 17.12 ± 0.7 years; body height: 175.1 ± 6.6 cm; body weight 59.9 ± 7.1 kg) participated in the study. All swimmers have competed at the national level in Serbia for at least three years and have at least five years of training experience. Fifteen variables were measured: arm length, hand length, leg length, foot length, seat height, wrist diameter, ankle joint diameter, elbow diameter, chest circumference, triceps skinfold, forearm skinfold, abdominal skinfold, subscapular skinfold, thigh skinfold, calf skinfold. The measurements were taken by the Martin anthropometer, Omron digital scale BF511, and John Bull caliper. Swimming speed was measured during 50-m and 100-m front crawl swimming. Multiple regression analysis revealed that arm length, wrist diameter, and chest circumference, all together, accounted for 77% of 100-m front crawl swimming speed in male swimmers, while abdominal skinfold accounted for 90% of 100-m front crawl swimming speed in female swimmers. Results showed that anthropometric characteristics could not account for adolescent swimmers' 50-m front crawl swimming speed. However, anthropometric characteristics can influence the result in swimming (100-m front crawl swimming speed) in adolescents and thus should be considered a diagnostic tool in selecting young swimmers.

Scapulohumeral kinematics and neuromuscular control during scaption are associated with passive stiffness and strength of periscapular muscles in competitive adolescent swimmers

The passive stiffness and strength of periscapular muscles may affect scapulohumeral control, especially in overhead athletes due to sports-specific training. This study tried to assess the relationship between the passive stiffness and strength of periscapular muscles, scapulohumeral kinematics and neuromuscular control during scaption in swimmers. Ten male adolescent competitive front-crawl swimmers were recruited. The passive stiffness and strength of periscapular muscles were measured in standard postures by a hand-held myotonometer and dynamometer, respectively. Surface electromyography and electromagnetic tracking systems were synchronized to record the muscle activities and scapulohumeral kinematics during scaption. Correlations between the passive stiffness or strength of periscapular muscles and the kinematics or muscle activity were examined by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The maximal strength of periscapular muscles correlated positively with the ranges of upward and external rotation of the scapula and negatively with muscle activity during scaption. Passive stiffness of periscapular muscles was associated with the downward rotation of the scapula and triggered an increase in muscle activity. Increased passive stiffness or decreased strength in the periscapular muscles may affect their role in controlling the scapular rotation and contribute to compensation from adjacent muscles. Our findings suggest that when attempting to evaluate scapular behavior, it may be beneficial to examine muscle strength and passive stiffness of periscapular muscles.

The Effect of Concurrent Resistance Training on Upper Body Strength, Sprint Swimming Performance and Kinematics in Competitive Adolescent Swimmers. A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aimed to examine the effect of 9 weeks of concurrent resistance training (CRT) between resistance on dry land (bench press (BP) and medicine ball throw) and resistance in water (water parachute and hand paddles) on muscle strength, sprint swimming performance and kinematic variables compared by the usual training (standard in-water training). Twenty-two male competitive swimmers participated in this study and were randomly allocated to two groups. The CRT group (CRTG, age = 16.5 ± 0.30 years) performed a CRT program, and the control group (CG, age = 16.1 ± 0.32 years) completed their usual training. The independent variables were measured pre- and post-intervention. The findings showed that the one-repetition maximum bench press (1RM BP) was improved only after a CRT program (d = 2.18; +12.11 ± 1.79%). Moreover, all sprint swimming performances were optimized in the CRT group (d = 1.3 to 2.61; −4.22 ± 0.18% to −7.13 ± 0.23%). In addition, the findings revealed an increase in velocity and stroke rate (d = 1.67, d = 2.24; 9.36 ± 2.55%, 13.51 ± 4.22%, respectively) after the CRT program. The CRT program improved the muscle strength, which, in turn, improved the stroke rate, with no change in the stroke length. Then, the improved stroke rate increased the swimming velocity. Ultimately, a faster velocity leads to better swim performances.

English

Introduction: The relationship between adherence to the mediterranean diet and central fat of adolescent competitive swimmers is under-studied. The fat component is interesting because of its relationship to the horizontal floatation and speed during the swimming performance. An accumulation of central fat is considered a negative factor for health and performance. This study aimed to check the degree of adherence to the mediterranean diet and its relationship with some indices of central fat in competitive adolescent swimmers. Material and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out. 74 adolescent swimmers participated in the study (males n= 34, 14.5 ± 1.3 y.o., females n= 40, 13.6 ± 1.2 y.o.). The swimmers completed the KIDMED questionnaire to assess their adherence to the mediterranean diet. A II level ISAK anthropometrist carried out the anthropometric data collection at the beginning of the evening swimming session. Results: The swimmers showed a medium adherence to the mediterranean diet. Male and female swimmers showed similar KIDMED index score (males 8.09 ± 1.5, females 7.23 ± 2.2). Age seems to be a detrimental factor in the adherence to the mediterranean diet during adolescence. Female swimmers showed a significant lower waist/hip ratio compared to males (-0.028; p = 0.01). The adherence to the mediterranean diet was not correlated with the anthropometric measures of central fat. Conclusions: Regardless of the adherence to the mediterranean diet, elevated swimming activity maintains indices of central fat in healthy values. Despite there was no correlation between adherence to the mediterranean diet and the anthropometric measures of central fat, there are reasons related to health to improve healthy eating habits of adolescent competitive swimmers.

The Effects of Anaerobic Swim Ergometer Training on Sprint Performance in Adolescent Swimmers.

The purpose of this study was to compare 4 weeks of pool-based sprint interval training with a similar ergometer training intervention on a maximal anaerobic lactate test (MANLT), 50-m (competition) freestyle performance, and 6- and 30-second maximal swimming ergometer performances. A total of 14 competitive adolescent swimmers (male, n = 8; female, n = 6) participated in this study. Swimmers were categorized into 2 sex-matched groups: swimming ergometer (ERG; n = 7) and pool-sprint training (n = 7) groups. Each athlete performed 4 preintervention and postintervention assessments consisting of a MANLT, a 50-m freestyle race, and 6- and 30-second maximal swim ERG performances. Both groups demonstrated a significant effect (P < .05) of time for all assessments. Group differences were observed after 4 weeks of sprint interval training as follows: (1) The ERG group had a significantly faster speed in the fourth 50-m MANLT sprint (ERG 1.58 [0.05] vs pool-sprint training 1.48 [0.07]m/s, P < .01) and (2) The ERG group demonstrated enhanced Δblood lactate post-MANLT (ERG 2.4 [1.2] vs pool-sprint training 2.7 [0.9]mmol/L, P < .05). A significant correlation was found between the 30-second maximal ERG test and 50-m freestyle swimming velocity (r = .74, P < .01, effect size = 0.52). The results demonstrate significant physiological improvements to anaerobic sprint ability after 4 weeks of sprint interval training in both swim ERG and pool-based interventions. Thus, sprint ability may be improved through multiple modalities (pool and dry land) to elicit a positive training response.

The Effects of Applied and Sport-Specific Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement Training on Mindfulness Skills, Flow, and Emotional Regulation in National Competitive Swimmers

These case studies examined the effects of mindful sport performance enhancement (MSPE) programs on competitive swimming performance, flow experience, and emotional regulation. Sixteen national competitive adolescent swimmers were randomly allocated into MSPE (n = 9) and relaxation training (n = 7) groups for 8 weeks. In the second phase of the intervention, the 16 participants were evenly split into an MSPE group for swimming and a control group for 5 weeks. The participants completed measures of trait and state flow, and mindfulness pre- and postintervention. The data analysis revealed that mindfulness had significant effects on both action–awareness merging and clear goals subscales. Further analysis revealed that the MSPE for swimming group significantly improved in terms of presence relative to the control group. In conclusion, general and sport-specific mindfulness interventions can psychologically benefit adolescent competitive swimmers.

Swimming Through It: Pain Reporting Behaviors in Competitive Adolescent Swimmers

Swimming Through It: Pain Reporting Behaviors in Competitive Adolescent Swimmers

Pains in the Lanes: Characterizing the Epidemiology of Swimmer’s Shoulder in Adolescents

Introduction: “Swimmer’s shoulder” is the colloquial phrase describing pain and injury in the anterolateral region of the shoulder, formerly referred to as supraspinatus impingement syndrome (1). The presumptive pathophysiology resembles that of other overuse injuries involving microtrauma to the local soft tissue, as the shoulder accounts for 90% of propulsive force in certain strokes (2, 3). Accordingly, population studies indicate that 40-91% of adolescent competitive swimmers report shoulder pain subjectively, with 84% and 69% exhibiting objective findings on physical exam and radiographic imaging (1, 4, 5). However, evaluation of epidemiologic risk factors that may …

Hitting the Wall: Strategies of Shoulder Pain Management in Adolescent Swimmers

Introduction: “Swimmer’s shoulder” is the colloquial phrase describing pain and injury in the anterolateral region of the shoulder (1). Population studies indicate that 40-91% of adolescent competitive swimmers report shoulder pain. Management of swimmer’s shoulder traditionally relies upon “in-pool” reduction of stroke volume and reallocation of stroke effort to the lower extremity, coupled with “dry-land” muscle strengthening (often via physical therapy [PT]) (2, 3). However, the efficacy of these approaches is unclear (4). Anti-inflammatory therapy including NSAIDs have typically supplemented these approaches as a result (5). In turn, research demonstrates …

No Pain, No Gain: Normalizing Attitudes Associated with Shoulder Pain in Adolescent Swimmers

Introduction: “Swimmer’s shoulder” is the colloquial phrase describing pain and injury in the anterolateral region of the shoulder and is reported by 40-91% of adolescent competitive swimmers (1-3). Early detection of shoulder pain is beneficial to long-term health of athletes across similar sports requiring repetitive overhead shoulder motions as shoulder pain can signal imminent overuse injury (4). However, prior studies indicate that 86% of athletes implicitly or explicitly endorse swimming through practice pain, and 84% express reluctance towards the idea of taking time off (5). Such normalization is likely derived from theories that relate …

Improvement and Variability of Adolescent Backstroke Swimming Performance by Age.

To predict future performance, coaches rely on their previous experiences with a relatively small number of adolescent competitive swimmers to estimate the rate of improvement. The purpose of this study is to quantify the annual change in competition performance as backstroke swimmers mature. Data from 2006 to 2017 provided 9,956 swimming years of accumulated data which was used to estimate the rate of improvement of male and female backstroke swimmers as they aged from 8 to 18 years. Swimming performance improved rapidly between 8 and 13 years, and improvements diminished as swimmers approached their performance potential around 18 years old. These results provide accurate age-based progression data for adolescent backstroke swimmers, providing baseline performance prediction for coaches to predict future performance as swimmers mature, and providing a measure against which potential improvements from novel coaching and training methods can be objectively evaluated.

Swim-Training Volume and Shoulder Pain Across the Life Span of the Competitive Swimmer: A Systematic Review.

Competitive swimmers are exposed to enormous volumes of swim training that may overload the soft tissue structures and contribute to shoulder pain. An understanding of training factors associated with the injury is needed before practice guidelines can be developed. To investigate the relationship between swim-training volume and shoulder pain and to determine swim-training volume and shoulder pain prevalence across the life span of the competitive swimmer. Relevant studies within PubMed, Web of Science, and MEDLINE. Studies that assessed the relationship between a defined amount of swim training and shoulder pain in competitive swimmers. Twelve studies (N = 1460 participants) met the criteria. Swimmers were grouped by age for analysis: young (<15 years), adolescent (15-17 years), adult (18-22 years), and masters (23-77 years). Adolescent swimmers showed the highest rates of shoulder pain (91.3%) compared with other age groups (range = 19.4%-70.3%). The greatest swim-training volumes were reported in adolescent (17.27 ± 5.25 h/wk) and adult (26.8 ± 4.8 h/wk) swimmers. Differences in exposure were present between swimmers with and those without shoulder pain in both the adolescent (P = .01) and masters (P = .02) groups. In adolescent swimmers, the weekly swim-training volume (P < .005, P = .01) and years active in competitive swimming (P < .01) correlated significantly with supraspinatus tendon thickness, and all swimmers with tendon thickening experienced shoulder pain. Evidence suggests that swim-training volume was associated with shoulder pain in adolescent competitive swimmers (level II conclusion). Year-round monitoring of the athlete's swim training is encouraged to maintain a well-balanced program. Developing athletes should be aware of and avoid a sudden and large increase in swimming volume. However, additional high-quality studies are needed to determine cutoff values in order to make data-based decisions regarding the influence of swim training.

The effects of Mindful Sport Performance Enhancement (MSPE) training on mindfulness, and flow in national competitive swimmers

There are limited studies examining the effects of a mindfulness intervention for a specific sport population group. The aim of this applied study was to investigate the effects of a mindful sport performance enhancement (MSPE) program on the mindfulness and flow of adolescent swimmers. Sixteen competitive adolescent swimmers were split into MSPE (n = 9) and relaxation training (RT) (n = 7) groups for eight weeks. Participants completed measures of trait and state flow mindfulness pre and post intervention. Paired t test results revealed that the MSPE group improved trait flow characteristics and global trait flow. ANCOVA analysis also revealed significantly higher effects on global trait flow and the action-awareness merging and clear goals subscales for the MSPE group compared to the RT group. These results suggested that sport orientated mindfulness interventions can psychologically benefit competitive youth swimmers. The study indicates that further research could consider applied designs to investigate in more detail the experiences this population has with specific mindfulness exercises.

Sensorimotor control and neuromuscular activity of the shoulder in adolescent competitive swimmers with generalized joint hypermobility

IntroductionShoulder pain is highly prevalent in competitive swimmers, and generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) is considered a risk factor. Sensorimotor control deficiencies and altered neuromuscular activation of the shoulder may represent underlying factors. Research questionTo investigate whether competitive swimmers with GJH including shoulder hypermobility (GJHS) differ in shoulder sensorimotor control and muscle activity from those without GJH and no shoulder hypermobility (NGJH). MethodsCompetitive swimmers (aged 13–17) were recruited. GJHS or NGJH status was determined using the Beighton score (0–9) and Rotès-Quérol test (positive/negative). Inclusion criteria for GJHS were a Beighton score ≥5 and minimum one hypermobile shoulder, while NGJH was defined as a Beighton score ≤3 and no shoulder hypermobility. Three prone lying, upper-extremity weight-bearing shoulder stabilometric tests were performed on a force platform: Bilateral upper-extremity support eyes open (BL-EO) and eyes closed (BL-EC) and unilateral upper-extremity support eyes open (UL-EO). Surface electromyography (SEMG) was measured from the upper trapezius, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, infraspinatus and pectoralis major muscles. SEMG was normalized using maximal voluntary isometric contractions and presented relative to maximal voluntary SEMG (%MVE). Co-contraction index (CCI) was calculated for the following muscle pairs: upper trapezius-lower trapezius, upper trapezius-serratus anterior, and infraspinatus-pectoralis major. Between-group differences in stabilometric parameters, %MVE, and CCI were analyzed with a mixed effects model. ResultsThirty-eight swimmers were enrolled as GJHS (n = 19) or NGJH (n = 19). There were no group differences in stabilometric parameters or CCI. GJHS displayed significantly decreased (29%) pectoralis major activity during BL-EO compared to NGJH (5.35 ± 1.77%MVE vs. 7.51 ± 1.96%MVE; p = 0.043). SignificanceAdolescent competitive swimmers with GJHS displayed no shoulder sensorimotor control deficiencies and no generally altered shoulder muscle activity pattern, except for decreased pectoralis major activity in BL-EO. Longitudinal studies are needed to investigate whether decreased pectoralis major activation contributes to the development of shoulder pain in swimmers with GJHS.

Effects of Whole Body Vibration on Tibia Strength and Structure of Competitive Adolescent Swimmers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundSwimming has no effect on bone mass or structure. Therefore, adolescent swimmers present similar bone strength values when compared to normo-active controls, and lower values when compared to weight-bearing athletes. It thus seems necessary to try to improve bone structure and strength of adolescent swimmers through a weight-bearing intervention in order to reduce the risk of suffering osteoporosis later in life. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of a 6-month whole body vibration (WBV) intervention on bone strength and structure of adolescent swimmers. DesignRandomized controlled trial. SettingResearch center. ParticipantsA total of 51 swimmers (14.4 ± 2.0 years) participated in the study. MethodsSwimmers were randomly allocated into 2 groups: 20 swimmers (9 females) who only performed their swimming training, and 31 swimmers (15 females) who performed their swimming training and received a WBV intervention (3.6-11.6 g) 3 times per week during 6 months (VIB). Outcome measurementsPeripheral quantitative computed tomography was performed in the nondominant tibia of all swimmers at 4%, 38%, and 66% of the tibia length before and after the intervention. ResultsNo differences between groups in any bone structure variable were found at pre- or postintervention. Both groups presented similar improvements in time, and no group by time interactions were found, suggesting that the WBV intervention was not intense enough to achieve positive changes in bone strength or structure. ConclusionWBV, at the chosen intensities and durations, had no effect on adolescent swimmers’ bone strength or structure. Future studies should test other weight-bearing interventions aiming to improve bone strength and structure of adolescent swimmers. Level of EvidenceII

Effect of Swim Training on the Physical Characteristics of Competitive Adolescent Swimmers

Background: Subacromial space distance and forward head and shoulder posture are common characteristics resulting from swim training. These alterations can cause abnormal scapular kinematics and positioning, potentially increasing compression of structures in the subacromial space and increasing the risk for the development of swimmer’s shoulder. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of the swim training season on subacromial space distance and forward head and forward shoulder posture as well as to determine the relationship between these variables. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Included in the study were 43 competitive adolescent swimmers and 29 nonoverhead adolescent athletes (controls) who were not currently experiencing any shoulder, neck, or back pain that limited their participation in sports activity. All participants were evaluated 3 times: once before the start of the swim training season and then at 2 follow-up sessions 6 and 12 weeks after the initial testing session. At each testing session, each participant completed a physical examination that included evaluation of posture and subacromial space distance. Results: Swimmers had significantly greater decreases in subacromial space distance during the training season compared with nonoverhead athletes. Swimmers also demonstrated significantly greater increases in forward shoulder posture compared with nonoverhead athletes. A significant relationship was noted between changes in forward shoulder posture and changes in subacromial space distance from the baseline testing session to the assessment 6 weeks after baseline assessment. As forward shoulder posture increased, subacromial space significantly decreased. Conclusion: Because of their training load, swimmers experience a decrease in subacromial space distance and an increase in forward shoulder posture over the course of 12 weeks of training, potentially making these athletes more vulnerable to the development of shoulder pain and injury.

The impact of nutrition education on nutrition knowledge and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet in adolescent competitive swimmers.

Nutrition education of adolescent competitive swimmers is under-studied although their diet and nutrition knowledge are generally poor. This study aimed to assess the impact of nutrition education on nutrition knowledge and adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) and explore the effect of parental education on the swimmers' MD adherence. A pre-post measurement interventional study was carried out. A half-day nutrition education session was delivered for the swimmers and a separate session for their parents. At baseline and 6-weeks post-workshop, a short nutrition knowledge assessment of food sources of nutrients and the MD composition as well as adherence to the MD using the KIDMED Index were undertaken. The swimmers' parents also completed the KIDMED Index to evaluate the swimmers' diet. Thirty-four competitive swimmers (age: 15.2±1.5 yr, 23 males) and 22 of their parents participated in the study. There was an improvement in MD adherence with 47% having good adherence post-intervention vs 21% at baseline (p<0.01) and an increase in the KIDMED Index score (median [interquartile range]: 5.0 [4.0-7.0] vs 7.0 [7.0-9.0]; p<0.01)). There was also an increase in the swimmers' nutrition knowledge assessment score (median [IQR]: 7.0 [5.0-8.0] vs 7.0 [6.0-8.0], p<0.05)), and a trend for a lower score post-intervention in swimmers whose parents did not participate compared to those whose parents participated (6.0 [6.0-7.8] vs 7.0 [7.0-8.0], p=0.063). The intervention improved adherence to the MD and increased nutrition knowledge. The findings support parental participation in nutrition education.

Stability of within-sport specialisation in competitive adolescent sub-elite swimmers

The study aimed to assess the stability of stroke selection during adolescence and the determination of within-sport specialisation. All swimmers (448 males, 14.1±1.6 y and 518 females, 13.9±1.6 y) who competed in an annual international schools championship from 2006 to 2013 were analysed. Kruskal-Wallis tests identified the significant differences between paired stroke combinations and the relative frequency of each pair was determined from Cohen’s Kappa tests. The percentage of swimmers selecting the same event in two of three paired age categories (13-14, 15-16, 17-18 y) was calculated for each sex separately (n=78). Stability of stroke selections were determined using Cohen’s Kappa tests. The most preferred combination of events selected was 50 and 100 m freestyle for males (33.9±5.8%) and females (36.9±6.5%). The least preferred combination was 100 m breaststroke with 100 m butterfly for males (2.7±1.7%), and 200 m freestyle with 100 m breaststroke for females (1.9±1.4%). Males were less stable than females in electing to swim the same events from when first competing until their final competition. Breaststroke was the only stroke where early specialisation was observed. Young swimmers appear to be drawn towards particular stroke combinations over distance specialisation and males choices stabilise later compared with females.