Kinematic changes in 5-m swimming start performance using the new double kick start block

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Swimming Performance

Background:

• Start performance is crucial for reducing overall race time in sprint swimming.
• Optimizing the start phase can provide a competitive advantage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the angular and temporal characteristics of swimming starts using the new DKS starting block with various pedal angles against the OSB12 platform.
• To evaluate the impact of different starting block configurations on 5-meter race times.

Main Methods:

• 13 junior competitive swimmers performed maximal-effort starts from the DKS block (30°/30°, 40°/40°, 50°/50°, 60°/60° pedal settings) and the OSB12 platform.
• Kinematic parameters were analyzed using a 4-camera system and specialized software.
• Repeated measures ANOVA was used to evaluate differences between conditions.

Main Results:

• The DKS block at 40°/40° and 50°/50° pedal settings resulted in significantly more effective starts compared to the OSB12 platform.
• Swimmers exhibited shorter block times, improved flight phase parameters (time and distance), and faster 5-meter splits with the optimized DKS settings.
• Statistical analysis confirmed significant improvements (p < .001) with large effect sizes (ηp² = 0.78-0.90).

Conclusions:

• Variable pedal angles on the DKS starting block significantly enhance swimming start kinematics.
• The DKS starting block, particularly at 40°/40° and 50°/50° settings, positively impacts 5-meter performance.
• These findings suggest the DKS block can optimize the initial phase of a swimming race.