Training control and swimmers' evaluation: performance and health concerns

Abstract

This thesis explored the complex dynamics of training and performance in competitive swimming, focusing on the integration of biomechanical, physiological and psychological aspects. The following evaluations were applied: anthropometric characterization, 5 x 200 m intermittent incremental protocol, isokinetic testing of shoulder and knee joints, 25 m all out sprint with and without speedometer, countermovement jump, track start (until reach the 15 m mark), front crawl 200 m maximal, 30 s tethered swimming, orthostatic test, Hooper index and sleep questionnaires, session rating of perceived exertion and hand-grip strength test. The results evidenced that: (i) the anaerobic threshold is a biophysical boundary, that can be determined in the four conventional swimming techniques and in medley; (ii) elite swimmers have higher strength levels than non-elite counterparts associated with improved stroke length and rate, and higher arm span being related to better sprint times for front crawl, butterfly and backstroke; (iii) isokinetic shoulder and knee power correlate with longer times on the starting block but not with the overall start performance; (iv) swimmers exhibit more upper limbs symmetry when evaluations mimic real practice conditions (similar angular velocity); (v) dry-land and in-water force production are directly related; (vi) training duration and countermovement jump performance are strong predictors of swimming performance, while higher body fat negatively impacts it; (vii) lower limbs contribute significantly to maintain or increase sprint swimming velocity; (viii) a mean overload of ~27% in training loads within a two-week period did not impair profile of mood state, dry-land strength and swimming performances in elite swimmers, and (ix) vagally mediated biomarkers appears to be highly sensitive and capable of predicting changes in the daily training loads imposed to swimmers. The applied evaluations and consequent results showed practical implications for the swimming training process, allowing to better objectify and control it. This thesis offers comprehensive insights into training and performance in competitive swimming, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to monitoring training effects and interpret swimming performance. Palavras-chave: natação pura; avaliação e controlo do treino; fisiológica; biomecânica; psicologia; nadadores de elite.