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Swimming Performance in Elite Triathletes: Comparison Between Open Water and Pool Conditions
Óscar López-Belmonte1, Jesús J Ruiz-Navarro1, Ana Gay1
1Aquatics Lab, Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
|July 24, 2024
Summary
Elite triathletes exhibit different swimming techniques in open water versus pool conditions, with physiological responses remaining similar. Open water swimming performance strongly correlates with pool swimming ability, highlighting the need for specialized open water training.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Swimming Biomechanics
Background:
- Elite triathletes face distinct demands in open water versus pool swimming.
- Understanding kinematic and physiological differences is crucial for optimizing performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare performance, kinematic, and physiological variables between open water and pool swimming in elite triathletes.
- Examine the associations between these variables across different swimming environments.
Main Methods:
- Fourteen elite triathletes completed 1500-m swimming tests in both open water and a 25-m pool.
- Assessed variables included swimming speed, stroke rate, stroke length, stroke index, heart rate, blood lactate, and oxygen uptake.
Main Results:
- Open water swimming showed lower stroke length and index, and higher stroke rate compared to pool swimming.
- No significant differences in heart rate, blood lactate, or oxygen uptake were observed between conditions.
- Strong positive correlation found between open water and pool swimming performance.
Conclusions:
- Despite physiological similarities, kinematic adjustments are necessary for open water swimming.
- Elite triathletes' open water performance is linked to their pool swimming capabilities.
- Specific open water training is recommended to adapt swimming technique for competitive environments.
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