EO SwimBETTER^® Device in Measuring Kinematic and Kinetic Variables: Validity, Reliability, and Sensitivity.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Swimming Performance Analysis

Background:

• Accurate measurement of kinetic and kinematic variables is crucial for optimizing swimming technique and performance.
• Existing devices may have limitations in reliability or validity for specific swimming metrics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and validity of the EO SwimBETTER® device for assessing swimming performance.
• To analyze kinetic and kinematic data during maximal intensity 50 m and 200 m freestyle trials.

Main Methods:

• Ten swimmers (7 male, 3 female) performed maximal intensity 50 m and 200 m freestyle trials.
• The EO SwimBETTER® device was used to measure kinetic and kinematic parameters.
• Data were compared against a reference device, and reliability was assessed over multiple trials.

Main Results:

• The EO SwimBETTER® demonstrated high reliability for both kinetic and kinematic swimming variables.
• Strong agreement was observed between the EO SwimBETTER® and the reference device for stroke frequency measurement.
• Higher mean force was recorded in 50 m trials compared to 200 m trials, indicating device sensitivity to exertion demands.

Conclusions:

• The EO SwimBETTER® is a promising tool for monitoring technical and performance-related variables in swimming.
• The device shows potential for use in training and performance analysis.
• Further research is recommended to fully establish its utility across various swimming contexts.