Wearable Sensor-Based Phase Segmentation Analysis of Front Crawl Swimming: A Scoping Review

Front crawl swimming stroke phase segmentation has historically relied on video analysis, but the development of wearable sensor technology has created new opportunities for automated phase segmentation. This scoping review mapped the available evidence on wearable sensor-based stroke phase segmentation methods in front crawl swimming, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A systematic search of SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore conducted from January to June 2026, identified 15 eligible peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024. The review revealed an emerging field of research that has converged methodologically around inertial measurement units (IMUs) and the Chollet phase segmentation framework while remaining heterogeneous in algorithmic approach and validation practice. Most notably, no included study reported force or pressure outcomes of any kind, representing a critical gap between current sensor-based segmentation capabilities and the biomechanical information most relevant to applied coaching. Continued work in algorithm validation and intra-phase force measurement is needed to advance the field toward a more complete and practically applicable understanding of front crawl swimming mechanics.