Reliability of Load-Velocity Profiling in Front Crawl Swimming

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Swimming Performance Analysis

Background:

• Load-velocity profiles (LVP) are crucial for assessing athlete capabilities.
• Reliability and comparability of LVP calculation methods in swimming need further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• Establish test-retest reliability of LVP in front crawl swimming.
• Compare LVP outcome variables between three- and five-load protocols.
• Assess the utility of LVP for performance monitoring and individualized training.

Main Methods:

• Fifteen elite swimmers performed semi-tethered front crawl swimming with five progressive external loads.
• Load-velocity relationships were determined using linear regression.
• Test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis.

Main Results:

• Excellent test-retest reliability (ICC ≥0.902) was found for all LVP variables.
• No significant differences were observed between three- and five-load protocols for LVP outcomes.
• Small biases were noted in Bland-Altman plots, indicating high agreement between methods.

Conclusions:

• LVP calculation in front crawl swimming is reliable with both three and five external loads.
• Comparable outcome variables support the use of these methods for performance monitoring.
• LVP analysis aids in assessing velocity and strength, facilitating individualized training prescription.