Out-of-water functional assessment: the role of reactive strength and explosive strength in swimming speed
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/za2r4c75Keywords:
swimming, 200-m freestyle performance, predictive model, functional strength, jump testAbstract
Performance in the 200-meter freestyle event depends on a complex interaction between neuromuscular abilities, functional strength, and biomechanical efficiency. This study aimed to analyze whether various indicators of physical performance, including jump tests, explosive strength, and reactive strength (RSI), can predict competitive performance in young swimmers specializing in middle-distance events. A group of swimmers was evaluated using standardized vertical jump and countermovement jump tests, as well as functional strength tests geared toward swimming movements. Their official times in the 200-meter freestyle were also recorded. Statistical analyses explored the relationship between physical variables and pool performance and constructed a preliminary predictive model. The results showed that explosive power and RSI were significantly associated with the 200 m freestyle time, accounting for a substantial proportion of performance variability. These findings suggest that land-based functional tests can complement in-water assessment and serve as practical tools for performance monitoring and training planning for young swimmers
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Copyright (c) 2026 Michel Enrique Czerninski Alvarez, Anyi Karina Oviedo Jara, Mariangel Granada Aristizábal, Javier Gaviria Chavarro, Viviana Amparo López Ulchur, Diego Fernando Orejuela Aristizabal, Isabel Cristina Rojas Padilla (Autor/a)
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