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Analysis of angular momentum effect on swimming kick-start performance
Sonia Taladriz1, Blanca de la Fuente-Caynzos2, Raúl Arellano1
1Physical Education and Sport Department, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
Journal of Biomechanics
|April 27, 2016
Summary
The kick-start swimming technique offers significant temporal advantages over the grab start, primarily due to lower limb movements on the block and during flight. These mechanics optimize performance within the first 5 meters.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Swimming Performance
Background:
- The start is a critical phase in swimming, influencing overall race time.
- Understanding the biomechanics of different swimming starts is essential for performance enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the mechanics of rotation and kinematic variables during the aerial phase of the kick-start compared to the grab start.
- To identify key differences in temporal, angular, and kinematic variables between the two swimming start techniques.
Main Methods:
- Nine elite swimmers performed kick-starts and grab starts from an OMEGA OSB11 starting block.
- Kinematic variables were analyzed during the 5m glide phase post-start.
- Statistical analysis included T-tests and Wilcoxon tests with Holm's correction for multiple comparisons.
Main Results:
- Kick-starts showed significant advantages in temporal variables (excluding flight time) and vertical take-off velocity.
- No significant difference in center of mass angular momentum at take-off between the two starts.
- Kick-starts utilize lower limb displacement for improved body position, while grab starts involve greater trunk rotation.
Conclusions:
- Shorter block times and specific lower limb rotational movements are crucial for optimizing kick-start performance.
- Kick-start mechanics, particularly lower limb positioning, contribute to enhanced performance within the initial 5 meters of swimming.
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