[Effects of Core Stability Training on Masters Swimmers].

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Low back pain is prevalent among swimmers, particularly Masters swimmers.
• Insufficient core stability is a suspected contributing factor to this back pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if targeted core musculature training improves low back pain in swimmers.
• To assess the impact of core training on swimmers' self-reported performance.

Main Methods:

• An 8-week guided training program was implemented for two groups: Masters swimmers and a control group.
• Core musculature changes were assessed through pre- and post-training tests.
• Data was supplemented by follow-up interviews conducted 6 months later.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed significant improvements, with Masters swimmers exhibiting greater overall enhancement.
• A substantial majority (72.3%) of participants reported reduced back pain at follow-up.
• Participants noted additional benefits in their daily activities and swimming capabilities.

Conclusions:

• An 8-week core training program effectively reduces back pain in swimmers.
• The positive effects on back pain are evident and sustained over at least 6 months.
• Masters swimmers particularly benefit from this targeted training approach.