Pulmonary Function, Diving Response, and Spleen Dynamics in Competitive Artistic Swimmers

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Sports Science
• Diving Medicine

Background:

• Artistic swimmers undergo physiological stress during apnea.
• Understanding the diving response is crucial for optimizing training.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate pulmonary function, spleen contraction, and diving response in female artistic swimmers.
• Analyze differences based on competitive category and performance.
• Correlate physiological responses with performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• 12 competitive swimmers (Comen and Junior/Senior groups) performed maximal static dry apneas.
• Pulmonary function assessed via spirometry.
• Spleen volume, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and perfusion index monitored.
• Hemoglobin concentration measured pre- and post-apnea.

Main Results:

• Junior/Senior swimmers had superior pulmonary function.
• Both groups displayed significant bradycardia, reduced oxygen saturation, and perfusion index during apnea.
• Significant spleen contraction observed in all swimmers, with full recovery.
• Hemoglobin levels remained stable.
• Performance correlated with apnea duration (JS) and training hours (CO).

Conclusions:

• The diving response in artistic swimmers involves bradycardia, desaturation, and spleen contraction.
• Apnea duration is a key performance indicator for experienced athletes.
• Training volume is critical for performance in younger swimmers.