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Study design: Randomized control trial Objectives: To assess the added effect of core strengthening on performance within young competitive swimmers. Background: There have been studies in the past which evaluated efficacy of various exercise protocols in improving performance in young competitive swimmers. This improvement was expressed in terms of changes in the values of sprint time and stroking characteristics. The need of the hour has favored us answer this research question regarding the efficiency of core strengthening program in improving the performing in the young competitive swimmers. Methods: 60 young competitive swimmers (mean±SD, Age 14.2 ± 1.49) participated in the study of both sexes divided in two groups. (N=60, n1= 30, n2= 30). Outcome measures were evaluated before and after 6 weeks of an additional core strengthening. Repeated measures ANOVA, Friedman test, Unpaired t- test and Mann Whitney U test were used to analyze their performance. Results: Significant differences between values of outcome measures were noted between experimental and control group at p< 0.05. Conclusion: Added core muscle strengthening enhanced the performance in young competitive swimmers projected as significant improvements in 50m freestyle sprint time, velocity and stroke index. Level of Evidence: Therapy, level 1b.
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International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
Impact Factor (2012): 3.358
Volume 3 Issue 6, June 2014
www.ijsr.net
Licensed Under Creative Commons Attribution CC BY
The Effect of Core Strengthening on Performance of
Young Competitive Swimmers
Dr. Dnyanesh Patil1, Dr. Shivani Chowdhury Salian2, Dr. Sujata Yardi3
1Assistant Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, D.Y. Patil University, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, India
2Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, D.Y. Patil University, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, India
3Advisor, Department of Physiotherapy, D.Y. Patil University, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, India
Abstract: Study design: Randomized control trial Objectives: To assess the added effect of core strengthening on performance within
young competitive swimmers. Background: There have been studies in the past which evaluated efficacy of various exercise protocols in
improving performance in young competitive swimmers. This improvement was expressed in terms of changes in the values of sprint
time and stroking characteristics. The need of the hour has favored us answer this research question regarding the efficiency of core
strengthening program in improving the performing in the young competitive swimmers. Methods: 60 young competitive swimmers
(mean±SD, Age 14.2 ± 1.49) participated in the study of both sexes divided in two groups. (N= 60, n1= 30, n2= 30). Outcome measures
were evaluated before and after 6 weeks of an additional core strengthening. Repeated measures ANOVA, Friedman test, Unpaired t-
test and Mann Whitney U test were used to analyze their performance. Results: Significant differences between values of outcome
measures were noted between experimental and control group at p < 0.05. Conclusion: Added core muscle strengthening enhanced the
performance in young competitive swimmers projected as significant improvements in 50m freestyle sprint time, velocity and stroke
index. Level of Evidence: Therapy, level 1b.
Keywords: Freestyle swimmers, Stroke Index, Stroke Length, Stroke Rate, Swim velocity.
1. Introduction
The objective of competitive swimming is to cover a given
distance in water in the least possible time2, 17. Performance
in swimming depends on generating propelling power and
minimizing the resistance to movement in water17, 25.
Excelling in swimming records requires the swimmers to be
more specific and rigorous in their training regime which
has improved over the years garnering more support from
sport science20, 28. Dry land training is an integral part of the
training program for swimmers currently on the basis of
evidence substantiated through research work19,26. Many
studies have not been able to draw fulfilling conclusions as
regards the relationship between improvements of strength
on dry land and performance of swimmers in water19.
Studies in the past have inferred that dry land strength
training lack the positive transfer between dry land gains and
swimming propulsive force due specificity of training27.
Maintaining a streamlined body position and balance is one
of the critical factors in improving the efficiency of a
swimmer’s performance, which in turn depends on the
strength of the core muscles23. Unlike other ground based
sports swimming has no ground pushing back to limit the
way in which the body can move and adjust the center of
gravity to maintain balance, and therefore the core muscles
have to be as strong as possible to carry out similar functions
of balance and movement in water 13, 23.
Studies have also proven that there is a strong positive
correlation between core muscles strength, buoyancy and
finally swimming performance. Where sport specific skills
are concerned, an athlete’s core acts as a foundation of
movement generation and power production leading to an
improvement in the performance4,8,16. A strong core enables
an athlete to execute more efficient and swift body
movements thereby leading to a better force distribution
from the fully developed core to the upper and lower body
region16. In swimming the extremities which connect to the
lumbar spine are responsible for propelling the body through
water. A strong core will enable more energy to be
transferred from the core to pull and keep the components of
the stroke. A weak core will leak out more energy, resulting
in less powerful and kick and hence it is important to
develop a strong core in swimming13.
However there is little evidence proving that the core muscle
strength would be translated into improving the performance
of swim time at large26. Regardless of the amount of strength
a young athlete possesses in the upper and lower limbs, a
weak core will ultimately decrease the total amount of
power that can be accumulated4,11.
Specific body composition and proportions in adolescent
individuals affects the performance in swimming12,17. It is
believed that rigorous swimming training must begin before
puberty to make successful swimming champs10,17. Studies
correlating swimming performance with physical traits and
physical capacity in young swimmers are extremely
limited15,19. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find the
effect of core training on the performance of young
competitive swimmers. We hypothesized that core
strengthening exercise program when added to the routine
swim training program for swimmers brings about positive
changes in the performance of young competitive swimmers.
2. Methods
2.1 Study subjects
Seventy nine swimmers were assessed for eligibility (n=79),
out of which 19 swimmers did not met the inclusion criteria.
Sixty (n=60) competitive swimmers were selected for the
Paper ID: 02014789
2470
International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
Impact Factor (2012): 3.358
Volume 3 Issue 6, June 2014
www.ijsr.net
Licensed Under Creative Commons Attribution CC BY
study in the age group of 14-18 for boys and 12-18 years for
girls. The Demographic information of competitive
swimmers with mean ± SD is shown in Table 1. The
subjects included for this study were young competitive
level swimmers who have participated in any competition of
minimum school or club level swimmers between the ages,
Girls 12-18, boys 14-18 who have been trained or coached
for at least two years. Subjects with back pain in last six
months, cardiovascular or neurological problems, giddiness
or balance disorder or subjects undergoing any core training
or strength training were excluded.
2.2 Test procedures
Prior to testing, all subjects were informed about the nature
and course of the study and written assent was given
followed by the parents giving their consent to allow their
ward to participate in this study. The research proposal was
approved by the ethics committee of D Y Patil University,
Navi Mumbai. The subjects were assigned randomly to one
of the two groups, for allocation of participants a computer
generated randomly selected subset of subjects was used
(http://www.graphpad.com/quickcalcs/randomize1.cfm).
Group 1: Experimental Group
Group 2: Control Group
All subjects became familiar with the testing procedures that
took place approximately one week prior to session. During
the pretest session, each subject received instructions from a
therapist that explained and demonstrated proper execution
of each exercise.
2.3 Outcome Measures
2.3.1 Swimming performance
Time taken to complete 50m distance. It was determined by
using a stopwatch. All the swimmers performed maximal
freestyle 50m over a 25m swimming pool.
2.3.2 Functional Core Muscle Strength Performance
18: For assessment specific motion patterns and quality of
movement is done. The Core Muscle Strength Test was used
to monitor the athlete's core strength. To undertake this test
the subject requires a flat surface or a mat to support the
elbows and arms and a stopwatch (FIGURE 2). If the
subject is unable to hold any of these positions then the test
is to be stopped. This Test is conducted by keeping the mat
to support the elbows and arms to begin with the plank test
position. Once the correct position is assumed the tester
starts the stop watch.
Figure 2: Functional Core Muscle Strength Performance
2.3.3 Stroke rate
The time required to perform 3 stroke cycles was measured
and then used to calculate Stroke Rate
SR= 60 × 3/tSR (SR- Stroke Rate, tSR- time taken of 3
cycles)
2.3.4 Stroke length
The stroke length or distance per stroke was calculated by
dividing the velocity by the stroke rate expressed in m.cycle
V = S/t (V- Velocity, S, Distance, t- time)
SL = V × 60/SR (SL- Stroke Length) 3
The velocity was recorded as distance divided by time taken
to complete the race.
2.3.5 Stroke index
The stroke index (SI) was defined by Costill et.al (1985) as
the product of average velocity and stroke length and they
considered it a valid indicator of swimming efficiency. The
resulting units were m2 * (s.cycle)-1
SI= V × SL (SI- Stroke Index) 3
2.4 Training Protocol
After the completion of all baseline measurements the
subjects age and sex matched swimmers were selected and
randomly assigned to each of both groups. Experimental
group (Group 1) received core training along with the
routine swimming training. All the group 1 participants were
trained for 3 times a week for six weeks. Outcomes
measures of both groups were collected after every 2 week
until their end of training after 6 weeks. Six exercises were
performed in one session as shown in
Paper ID: 02014789
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International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
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Figure 3, 4 and 5: The duration of the each session lasted for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Statistical Analysis
Data was analyzed using SPSS 15.0. Means ±SD were
calculated for each variable. Baseline outcome variables
were analyzed after six weeks using a repeated measure
analysis of variance for 50 m freestyle sprint time, stroke
rate, stroke length, swim velocity, and stroke index and
Independent student’s t- test for comparison within the
groups and between two groups respectively. Similarly
Friedmann test for functional core muscle strength test for
comparison within groups and Mann Whitney U test for
comparison between the two groups. Statistical significance
was set at p.05. A Bonferroni correction for multiple
comparisons was used for post hoc analysis. All data are
presented as Mean ±SD.
Paper ID: 02014789
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ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
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Table 1: Demographic Information of the Subjects enrolled in the study
Descriptive Statistics*
Group 1 Group 2
M (n=19) F (n=11) M (n=19) F (n=11)
Age 14.7 ± 1.29 13.4 ± 1.50 14.7 ± 1.29 13.4 ± 1.50
BMI 19.97 ± 5.04 21.03 ± 3.08 21.4 ± 2.59 19.78 ± 2.01
Abbreviations: BMI, Body Mass Index; n, Number of
subjects
*Data presented as Mean ± SD
Paper ID: 02014789
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International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
Impact Factor (2012): 3.358
Volume 3 Issue 6, June 2014
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Table 2: Mean (± SD) of 50 m Freestyle Sprint time, Stroke Rate, Stroke Length, Velocity, Stroke Index for pre test and post
test & percentage change at the end of training from baseline
Table 2 Descriptive statistics for 5m freestyle sprint time, Stroke Rate, Stroke Length, Swim Velocity
& Stroke index‡ , Percentage change at the end of training from baseline
Assessment Pre test Post test %
change
2
n
d
week 4t
h
week 6t
h
week
50 m freestyle
sprint time Group 1 36.74 (6.76) 36.50 (6.81) 36.18 (6.62)* 35.71 (6.52)*† 2.8
Group 2 35.76 (4.12) 35.24 (4.49) 35.30 (4.30) 35.33 (4.43) 1.2
SR Group 1 63.48 (11.28) 62.86 (10.07) 62.69 (10.13) 62.49 (9.23) 1.55
Group 2 64.50 (9.91) 64.67 (9.11) 63.91 (8.71) 63.70 (7.87) 1.24
SL Group 1 1.37 (0.37) 1.39 (0.35) 1.41 (0.38) 1.43 (0.37) 4.37
Group 2 1.35 (0.28) 1.35 (0.26) 1.37 (0.26)* 1.38 (0.26)* 2.22
v Group 1 1.40 (0.22) 1.41 (0.23) 1.42 (0.23) 1.44(0.23)* 2.85
Group 2 1.42 (0.16) 1.43 (0.16) 1.43 (0.16) 1.44 (0.18) 1.40
SI Group 1 2.0 (0.84) 2.05 (0.84) 2.08 (0.85) 2.14(0.88)* 7
Group 2 1.94 (0.59) 1.97 (0.58) 1.99 (0.58) 2.03. (0.62) 4.63
Abbreviations: SR- Stroke Rate; SL- Stroke Length; SI- Stroke Index; v- swim velocity
Group 1: Core training group; Group 2: Control Group
*significant difference within group between pre and post test by comparing mean differences at p<0.05;
†: significant difference between groups by comparing mean difference at p<0.05
‡: Values are in Mean (±SD)
Table 3: Mean (± SD) of Functional Core Strength for pre test and post test & percentage change at the end of training from
baseline
Table 3 Comparison of Pre test and Post test of Functional Core strength in swimmers
Assessment Pre test Post test % change
2
n
d
week 4t
h
week 6t
h
week
Functional Core
strength Group 1 0.67 (0.76) 0.76 (0.57) 1.73 (1.17)* 2.53 (1.33)*† 73.51
Group 2 0.67 (0.59) 0.90 (0.73) 0.86 (0.73) 1.03 (0.83) 34.95
*significant difference within group between pre and post test at p<0.05;
†: significant difference between groups at p<0.05
4. Results
This study enrolled a total of sixty young competitive
swimmers. At the baseline there were no significant
differences between the groups in age, BMI, or any of the
outcome measures.
Demographics of each group are provided in TABLE 1. The
mean (±SD) for all outcome measures 50m freestyle sprint
time, Stroke Rate, Stroke Length, Swim velocity, Stroke
Index are summarized in TABLE 2 and Functional Core
Muscle strength test TABLE 3
Repeated measures ANOVA analysis of 50 m freestyle
sprint time showed significant changes in group 1 (p <.05) at
the end of fourth and sixth week of training. No differences
were found in group 2 (p>.05). Post hoc comparison within
groups demonstrated a significant difference between
baseline and post fourth and sixth week of training.
Comparison between group 1 and group 2 for swimming
performance using independent student t-test showed
significant changes at the end of training period (p>.05). No
significant differences were obtained between baseline and
at the end of training for Stroke Rate and Stroke Length
(p>.05). However the percentage difference between
baseline readings to Post training sixth week reported 1.55%
as compared to 1.24% improvement in control group, and
for Stroke Length 4.37% improvements in experimental
group & 2.22% control Group as shown in TABLE 2.
A significant difference was obtained between baseline and
post sixth week of training of Swim velocity and Stroke
Index (p<.05). Post hoc comparison demonstrated significant
improvements in swim velocity and stroke index at the end
of training. Improvements were shown in the fourth week
alone. No significant differences were observed between the
groups for swim velocity and stroke index.
A non parametric Friedman’s test revealed a statistical
significant difference of functional core muscle strength in
group 1 (Chi square (3) = 69.191, p<.05). Subsequent Mann
Whitney U test showed a significant difference between the
groups (p<.05).
5. Discussion
We hypothesized that a combined swimming with additional
core training would improve the swimming performance in
young competitive swimmers.
5.1 50 m Freestyle sprint time
The results show that the group 1 improved significantly
(p=.000) at the end of training while no change occurred in
group 2. Both the groups improved their performances in 50
m freestyle swim timings but the experimental group gained
statistically significant higher values than the control group
at the end of training (p <.05). In a previous study dry land
strength training did not reflect the transfer of strength gains
Paper ID: 02014789
2474
International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
Impact Factor (2012): 3.358
Volume 3 Issue 6, June 2014
www.ijsr.net
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into the swim time28. On the other hand another study
reported enhanced core stability, which did not transfer into
improvement of swimming performance24.
In this study as expected the specific, scheduled and
composite core strength training exercises does definitely
lead to a greater significant improvement in the sprint time
for 50m freestyle swimming. The liable explanation to this
could be higher demand on motor system and increased
muscle activity by the core muscles which maintained the
streamlined posture required while swimming and thus
producing powerful movement efficiently, thus improving
the swim time.
If the pelvis is unstable the swimmer will not be able to
generate maximum power with each kick and stroke thereby
increasing the swim time. When the abdominal muscles are
not strong enough to balance on water, the trunk tends to sag
down laying extra kinematics causing an increased drag
which demands on the structure of upper and lower limbs to
maintain the state of equilibrium5
In comparison of both the groups of this study, the group 1
showed the improvement in performance at the end of fourth
week, thus signifying the importance of core strength
training in improving the timed performance of young
swimmers.
5.2 Stroke Rate, Stroke Length and Swim Velocity
As per statistical analysis there was lack of improvement in
performances of stroke rate and stroke length at the end of 6
weeks of core training period in group1, but there was
statistically significant difference in stroke index at the end
of sixth week (p=.010) and swimming velocity improved as
early as at the end of fourth week (p=.000), however, group
2 showed an improvement in swim velocity only at the end
of 6th week (p=.003).
This study showed a non significant decrease in stroke rate
(average 0.08 stroke min-1) after 6 weeks of core training.
Many studies have identified stroke rate and stroke length as
a factor of swimming performance and it is associated with
muscular power14
Increased velocity is accounted for by an increased stroke
length and decreased stroke rate, and increase in speed can
also be obtained by increased stroke length with no change
in stroke rate in freestyle swimmers6,7. One study found out
that the velocity changes varied between slower and longer
competitors, but did not show any changes as far as stroke
rate and stroke length were concerned. Also another study
reported that stroking parameters for short distance events
do not have same influence on anthropometric
characteristics22. There could be a probable association
which needs further research between waist hip ratio and the
stroke rate and stroke length. According to our observations
females having wider pelvis spend few extra fraction of
seconds in “turning time”. This definitely warrants evidence.
Stroke index improved in group 1 as it’s related to velocity
and SL, velocity is significantly improved but not SL; so the
stroke index value showed changes because of the
significant change in velocity30. The swimming velocity
represents the product of SR and SL, therefore in order to
keep a given velocity; the swimmers generally adopt a
combination of SR and SL, which they consider to be the
most efficient. Elite swimmers adopt a different combination
of these parameters in relation to less experienced ones,
being the fact that possibly one of the factors determines
their higher performance level leading to direct changes in
SI9. Concerning regarding SI, which is according to the
studies in the literature which suggest a relationship between
SI and swimming technical skill and that faster swimmers
have higher SI values21.
5.3 Core Strength
This study showed significant increase in functional core
muscle strength at the sixth week (p>.000) which was
projected as a significant rise in their performance. Core
strengthening leads to an improvement in the stability
around the lumbar spine bringing about the biomechanical
change enabling a swimmer to move more swiftly in water
in an efficient manner. If these elements are not maintained,
then resistive forces at the extremities will increase and
stroke technique will break down, leading to an inefficient
stroke. In our study we have seen increased core strength of
a swimmer which has improved the ability to maintain
efficient technique thorough out the entire race.
Research stating whether there are any benefits of specific
core stability or core strength exercises in activating muscles
is limited and conflicting because of the wide variety of data
collection methods, exercise techniques and subjects used
for analysis. There is not one single exercise that activates
and challenges all of the core muscles; therefore, a
combination of exercises is required to result in core
stability and strength enhancements in an individual1,15.
When designing a strength program for competitive
swimmers, we have taken into consideration of exercises
that involve movements that are specific to swimming while
challenging the core musculature.
Studies attempting to determine an effect of core
strength/stability on athletic performance little support had
been identified for a relation to performance17. In this study
it was made sure that the swimmers perform more functional
activity for assessing functional core strength. Many sport-
specific training program’s fail to include low load motor
control training, which has been identified as an essential
part of core strength training and improving core stability15.
Therefore, by performing a well structured and functional
program using both low and high load training,
improvements should be attained in all the processes
contributing to core stability and core strength, thus
positively impacting sporting performance15.
This study showed swim specific exercises lead to an
improving the performance in swim time with the
improvement in core strength evaluated by Functional Core
Muscle Strength Performance test. Margins for improvement
in subjects are relatively small for highly conditioned group
of athletes. Using a homogenous group of athletes, however,
does enable a high level of sensitivity for any improvements
to be observed following an intervention program29.
Paper ID: 02014789
2475
International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR)
ISSN (Online): 2319-7064
Impact Factor (2012): 3.358
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In summary this study suggest that six weeks of core
training significantly improves core muscle strength, 50m
freestyle sprint time and stroke index with no variations in
stroke rate, and stroke length. Nevertheless the improvement
in the group 1 was nearly double as compared with the
improvements seen in the group 2. Therefore adding specific
exercises to a swimmers strength training program will
generally increase the speed and power of a swim stroke and
tremendously affect the improvement with respect to swim
time.
6. Conclusion
Six week core strengthening with routine swimming is
sufficient to improve the 50m freestyle swim performance in
time, swim velocity and stroke index much earlier than the
group which did not undergo core training program.
However six week of core training was not enough to
improve the stroke rate and stroke length for 50 m distance
in young competitive swimmers.
7. Scope of Future Research
Majority of this research demonstrate the effects of short
term core strengthening on sprinting performances. Owing
to the current popularity in young individuals for strength
and conditioning programs, additional long term
strengthening trials should be undertaken to investigate on
the stroking characteristics and performances. Also a new
paradigm is necessary for highly trained individuals to
develop different types of core strength training in to
maximize the performances. Inference of this Study can be
implemented in young Swimmers to improve their sprinting
performance.
8. Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the swimmers who
dedicated their time and energy to participate in this study.
The authors also thank to DY Patil Sports Academy, Nerul
and Fr Agnel’s Sports complex, Vashi for their assistance
and cooperation in the completion of this study.
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[26] Strass D. Effects of maximal strength training on sprint
performance of competitive swimmers. In: Swimming
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Reischle, K. Spon Press, London. 1988; 149-156.
[27] Tanaka H, Costill DL, Thomas R, Fink WJ, Widrick JJ.
Dry-land resistance training for competitive swimming.
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 1993; 25: 952-959.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1249/00005768-199308000-00011
[28] Toussaint H.M. Analysis of front-crawl swimming
performance factors using the MAD-system: science
meets practice. In: P. Hellard, M. Sidney, C. Fauquet &
D. Lehénaff (eds.), Proceedings First international
symposium sciences and practices in swimming,
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[29] Tse MA, McManus AM, Masters RS. Development and
validation of a core endurance intervention program:
implications for performance in college-age rowers. J
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/00124278-200508000-00011
[30] Willardson, J.M. Brief Review Core Stability Training:
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http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/00124278-200708000-00054
Authors Profile
Dr. Dnyanesh Patil (P.T): Assistant Professor,
Department of Physiotherapy, D.Y Patil University,
Nerul, Navi Mumbai. BPTh, MPT (Sports). Working
sports Physiotherapist aiming towards developing
sports performances and rehabilitation. Research
interest in the field of Sports, Especially in swimming.
Dr. Shivani Chowdhury Salian (P.T): Professor,
Department of Physiotherapy, D.Y Patil University,
Nerul, Navi Mumbai. She is a Research Scholar
pursuing at the same university. She also a qualified
Professional in Clinical trial Management. She also
achieved the Fellowship of the Academy of General Education.
She is a Executive Committee Member of Mumbai Branch of IAP
and Life Member of IAP. She also has designed instruments like
Vaginal Electrode, Perineometer, Pelvic Inclinometer, Pelvic Floor
Exerciser. Published and presented research papers in different
areas of specialties in physiotherapy. Her areas of Special Interest
includes Women’s Health and Geriatrics. Ante-natal, Post-natal,
and Gynaecological Conditions, Occupational and Environmental
Medicine, Exercise Physiology and Sports.
Dr. Sujata Yardi (P.T) is Advisor, Department of
Physiotherapy, D Y Patil University, Nerul, Navi
Mumbai. Former Dean, Professor and Director of the
same Department. She is having 44 years of vast
experience in the field of Physiotherapy. She has
Published and Presented numerous Research papers. She also has
conducted workshops on various topics like EMG and NCV
studies, Update on Electrotherapeutics, Vestibular Rehabilitation,
BPPV, Recent Trends in Electrotherapy practice, and Recent
Advances in Electrotherapy. She also has received Fellowship
Award from IAP in the year 2010. Her areas of Special Interest
includes Pulmonary and Cardiac Rehabilitation, Orthopaedic
Rehabilitation, Adult Neuro-Rehabilitation, EMG and NC studies
Paper ID: 02014789
2477
... The relationship between core stability and 50-meter freestyle performance has been the focus of numerous studies that have explored how the improvement in core stability could be translated into an increase in swimming speed and efficiency [5]. However, the results of these investigations have shown considerable variability, with ...
... The content of this article is the sole responsibility of the authors and does not represent an official opinion of their institutions or of the Revista de Investigación e Innovación en Ciencias de la Salud. some studies revealing significant benefits and others reporting non-existent effects [5][6][7][8]. This discrepancy in the findings highlights the need for a systematic and comprehensive analysis that integrates the available evidence to provide more robust conclusions. ...
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Introduction. Core stability training (CST) has gained increasing relevance in sports due to its potential to enhance athletic performance and reduce injury risk, particularly in swimming. The 50-meter freestyle is a key performance test in swimming, and understanding the impact of CST on this specific event is essential for optimizing training programs. Objective. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of CST on the performance of male and female swimmers in the 50-meter freestyle. Methods. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Bireme, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS), adhering to the Cochrane Handbook guidelines. Risk of bias was evaluated using the ROB2 scale, while the quality of the studies was assessed with the SIGN and CONSORT checklists. Data were analyzed using a fixed-effects meta-analysis in RevMan-Web, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and X2 tests. Results. Out of 2,323 records identified, 7 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that CST significantly improved 50-meter freestyle performance, with a time reduction of -1.06 seconds (95% CI = -1.52, -0.60) in male swimmers and -3.28 seconds (95% CI = -4.57, -1.99) in female swimmers. Conclusion. CST was found to be effective in enhancing performance in the 50-meter freestyle, particularly in female swimmers. These findings support the use of CST as a valuable training strategy for sports scientists and coaches aiming to improve swimming performance.
... Among the crucial elements influencing the effectiveness of training processes, appropriate conditioning of the abdominal muscles and torso emerges as a key determinant [1,23]. The primary objective in swimming competitions is to cover a specified distance in the shortest possible time, predominantly accomplished through optimal body positioning in the water and minimizing resistance [2][3][4][5]. Numerous publications underscore the integration of core muscle exercises in swimming training programs, highlighting their role in enhancing stabilizing muscles, which, in turn, contributes to greater limb strength [4,6,7]. The concept of core muscles has evolved to encompass the rectus abdominis, latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and trapezius [6,3,10]. ...
... The primary objective in swimming competitions is to cover a specified distance in the shortest possible time, predominantly accomplished through optimal body positioning in the water and minimizing resistance [2][3][4][5]. Numerous publications underscore the integration of core muscle exercises in swimming training programs, highlighting their role in enhancing stabilizing muscles, which, in turn, contributes to greater limb strength [4,6,7]. The concept of core muscles has evolved to encompass the rectus abdominis, latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, and trapezius [6,3,10]. ...
... yaitu: kekuatan, kelenturan, kelincahan, keseimbangan, kebugaran kardiovaskular (Zaina, Donzelli, Lusini, Minnella, & Negrini, 2015) selain itu untuk meningkatkan kinerja renang, perlu untuk meningkatkan teknik (stroke,koordinasi, mulai, dan teknik belok), biomekanik standar, kondisi fisik perenang yang baik (fleksibilitas, kekuatan, kordinasi, aerobik, dan anaerobik), dan komposisi tubuh perenang (de Mello Vitor & Böhme, 2010), Unsur kondisi fisik dominan power endurance sangat diperlukan atlet renang karena menurut (West, Owen, Cunningham, Cook, & Kilduff, 2011) pada studinya memberikan bukti pentingnya power endurance tubuh bagian bawah untuk melakukan start dan menahan kecepatan renang, Selain itu variasi kecepatan dalam setiap siklus pukulan dalam renang disebabkan oleh variasi di lengan, kaki, dan gerakan tubuh yang mungkin menggerakkan perenang maju (Barbosa et al., 2005). Pada dasarnya berenang memiliki pondasi yang dapat digunakan untuk menggerakkan badan maju dan sesuaikan pusat gravitasi untuk mempertahankan tubuh, dengan demikian, seorang perenang diharuskan memiliki core stability yang baik untuk dapat menjalankan fungsi menjaga keseimbangan dan pergerakan yang efisien di dalam air (Patil, Salian, & Yardi, 2014), memiliki kekuatan core stability yang kuat memungkinkan seorang perenang untuk melakukan gerakan tubuh lebih efisien dan cepat, karena dapat mendistribusikan kekuatan dengan lebih baik di seluruh tubuh bagian atas dan bawah (Kibler, Press, & Sciascia, 2006). Selain itu pada penelitian lain menjukkan bahwa perenang juga membutuhkan pengaruh penting mekanisme memperoleh energi dari alactic, sumber glycolitic dan aerobic pada kecepatan renang pada jarak pendek (Strzala & Tyka, 2009), berdasarkan kajian penelitian tersebut, pada proses pengabdian kepada masyarakat tentunya akan memperhatikan unsur-unsur kondisi fisik dominan yang akan di analisis. ...
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Pada olahraga renang ada beberapa komponen kondisi fisik dominan yang harus diketahui, sedangkan mitra belum memiliki data kondisi fisik dominan atlet yang dibina kususnya atlet renang dalam persiapan menuju event Porprov 2022. Tujuan pada kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat yakni melakukan analisa kondisi fisik dominan atlet renang. Metode yang digunakan pada kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat yakni tes kondisi fisik atlet renang, intrumen tes yang digunkana terdapat 10 komponen item tes, data dianalisis menggunakan rata-rata dan persentase. Hasil kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat analisis kondisi fisik atlet putra dan putri yang dipersiapkan untuk event Porprov 2022 menujukkan bahwa 72% atlet memiliki kemampuan kurang, 28% cukup, sedangkan kurang sekali, baik dan baik sekali masing-masing meliliki persentase 0%. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa kondisi fisik atlet putra dan putri yang dipersiapkan untuk event Porprov 2022 memiliki kemampuan kondisi fisik kurang.
... Conversely, Sato and Mokha (3) studied recreational and competitive runners following a six-week core stabilization intervention program and found improvements in both distance running and shuttle run times without finding similar gains in either kinetic efficiency or lower extremity stability.Additionally, strong correlations have been found between spinal flexion strength, distance run per week, and best time in a competitive race (4). In a related study involving swimming, 50-meter freestyle swim times, velocity, and stroke index were greatly improved following core training (5).Other studies involving either non-running sports or sports related activities have resulted in core strength/endurance improvements without showing gains in functional performance. Tse,McManus,and Masters (6) found that competitive rowers assigned to a core endurance intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in trunk endurance following an 8-week core training program without finding any improvements in functional performance testing. ...
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Bu çalışmada 11-14 yaş grubu karatecilerde fiziksel performans üzerine core antrenmanın etkilerini incelemek amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmaya 15 kız 15 erkek olmak üzere 30 karate sporcusu katılmıştır. Katılımcılar rastgele deney ve kontrol grubu olarak 2 ye ayrılmıştır. Deney grubu karate antrenman programına ek olarak core antrenmanına katılmıştır. Kontrol grubu sadece karate antrenmanlarına katılmıştır. Antrenmanlar 8 hafta süreyle haftada 3 kez uygulanmıştır. Katılımcıların 8 haftalık antrenman öncesi ve sonrasında modifiye plank testi, dikey sıçrama, otur-eriş testi ve Y denge testi verileri alınmıştır. Çalışmanın istatistiksel analizi SPSS 23.0 paket programında yapılmıştır. Grup içi analizde Wilcoxon İşaretli Sıralar testi kullanılırken, gruplar arasında karşılaştırma için Man Withney U testi kullanılmıştır. Grup içi analizler incelendiğinde 8 haftalık antrenman sonrasında deney grubunun modifiye plank, dikey sıçrama, otur-eriş ve Y denge ön test ve son test verileri arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark çıkarken kontrol grubunun sadece dikey sıçrama ve otur-eriş ön test ve son test verileri arasında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark bulunmuştur. Gruplar arası veriler incelediğinde modifiye plank, dikey sıçrama ve Y denge son test verilerinde istatistiksel olarak anlamlı fark bulunmuştur.
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Objective: Swimming is a sport that requires a considerable strength, endurance, mobility and stability of the upper body. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the effects of dry-land and in-water core stability training programs on swimmers’ upper body balance and performance. Methods: The available statistical sample of this study included 28 swimmers from city of Sabzevar who were divided randomly into three groups of dry-land (10 swimmers), in-water (10swimmers) and control (8 swimmers). Data analysis was done by split-plot ANOVA to compare intra- and inter-group variables and Bonferroni post-hoc test was also utilized to compare group means within two groups. Results: The results showed that four-week core stability exercises on dry-land led to 50m swimming time improvements as well as upper body balance of dominant and non-dominant limbs. There was no significant improvement in 50m for dryland group and no significant improvement in stroke rate for both experimental groups. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, it is suggested that coaches and swimmers utilize exercises used in this study in order to improve upper body balance as well as swimming performance in their training program. Keywords: Upper quarter balance, Core stability, Swimming, Performance
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Core Antrenmanının Sürat Parametreleri Üzerine Etkisi (Bir Meta-Analiz Çalışması) İdris KAYANTAŞ Mehmet SÖYLER Core Egzersiz Kavramı ve Anatomisi Yıldırım Gökhan GENCER Covid-19 Salgınının Beş Büyük Avrupa Ligine Olan Ekonomik Etkilerinin İncelenmesi Atakan AKSU Gürkan TANOĞLU Tuba Fatma KARADAĞ Covid-19 Salgınının Spor Organizasyonlarına Etkisi ve Ekonomik Zararları Gülsüm YILMAZ Enes BELTEKİN Egzersiz ve Bazı Hormon Parametreleri Arasındaki İlişki Nilüfer BULUT Güreş Sporunun Fiziksel ve Fizyolojik Özellikleri Hüseyin EROĞLU Spor Bilimleri Fakültesi Öğrencilerinde Yaşam Tatmini ve Boş Zaman Yönetimleri Barış KARAOĞLU Mali Tablolar Bakımından Spor Kulüpleri Yasasının Gerekliliği (Dört Büyükler Örneği) Oğuzhan EROĞLU Tuba Fatma KARADAĞ Pandemide (Covid-19) Egzersiz ve Beslenme Ali TÜRKER Kahramanmaraş Kültüründe Yüzük Oyunu Abdullah DOĞAN Genç Kadın Futbolcularda Şuttaki Top Hızı: Kuvvet, Güç ve Antropometre Yıldırım Gökhan GENCER Mücahit SARİKAYA Fatih ERİŞ Emre Can IĞDIR Salih ÖNER
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The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between velocity, stroke length, and stroke rate in freestyle competitive events in order to compare male and female swimmers' results and assess their relationships with anthropometric characteristics. Three hundred three male and 325 female swimmers of national and international levels were tested during competition. Solutions adopted in each freestyle event had specific characteristics affecting the stroke rate/stroke length ratio according to distance of the race. Differences in velocity between men and women primarily resulted from differences in stroke length. If the velocity and stroke rate/stroke length ratio depend on the distance swum and the sex of the swimmer, this survey shows the nondiscriminating aspect of anthropometric characteristics. Although swimmers achieved very similar velocity values with different combinations of stroke length and stroke rate, one must appreciate the average time and space characteristics currently used by the best male and female swimmers to optimize their performances.
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Competitive swimmers were asked to swim at a constant velocity (V) for short distances. They wore a collar to which was attached a fine non-elastic steel wire. The wire passed over two wheels of a device attached to one end of the pool. One wheel generated an impulse for every cm of forward movement and another wheel produced an electrical signal which was directly proportional to V. Measurements of distance and time were begun at definable points in the stroke cycle and were discontinued at the end of a predetermined number of strokes. In all of the four competitive strokes, front and back crawl, butterfly, and breaststroke, the V increased as a result of increasing the stroke rate (Ṡ) and decreasing the distance per stroke (d/S). In the front crawl, the male and female swimmers who achieved the fastest V had the longest d/S at slow Ṡ. The faster male swimmers also had greater percent decrease of the d/S at their maximal V than did the less skilled persons. The back crawl was similar to the front crawl except that maximal Ṡ and V were less. Increases of V of the butterfly were related almost entirely to increases in Ṡ. Except at the higest V, d/S was decreased somewhat. In the breaststroke increased V was also associated with increasing Ṡ, but the d/S decreased much more than in the other stroke styles. Fluctuations of velocity during the stroke cycle were least in the front and back crawl (± 15-20%) and greatest in the butterfly and breaststroke (+45-50%). The results were compared to the Ṡ observed and the values for V and d/S calculated for a large group of swimmers competing in the 1976 U.S. Olympic Trials. The implications of the findings for coaching swimmers are discussed.
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The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a core endurance exercise protocol. Forty-five college-age rowers (age 21 +/- 1.0) were assigned to either a core training group [core group] (n = 25), which took part in a core endurance intervention exercise protocol, or to a control training group [control group] (n = 20), which was not given any specialized core training. Training took place 2 days per week for 8 weeks. Trunk endurance was assessed using flexion, extension, and side flexion tests, whereas a variety of functional performance measures were assessed (vertical jump, broad jump, shuttle run, 40-m sprint, overhead medicine ball throw, 2,000-m maximal rowing ergometer test). The results revealed significant improvement in the two side flexion tests for the core group (p < 0.05). Interestingly, significant differences were noted in the trunk extension test endurance times for the control group (p < 0.05), but not for the core group. No significant differences were found for any of the functional performance tests. In summary, the 8-week core endurance training program improved selected core endurance parameters in healthy young men, but the effectiveness of the core intervention on various functional performance aspects was not supported.
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In recent years, fitness practitioners have increasingly recommended core stability exercises in sports conditioning programs. Greater core stability may benefit sports performance by providing a foundation for greater force production in the upper and lower extremities. Traditional resistance exercises have been modified to emphasize core stability. Such modifications have included performing exercises on unstable rather than stable surfaces, performing exercises while standing rather than seated, performing exercises with free weights rather than machines, and performing exercises unilaterally rather than bilaterally. Despite the popularity of core stability training, relatively little scientific research has been conducted to demonstrate the benefits for healthy athletes. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to critically examine core stability training and other issues related to this topic to determine useful applications for sports conditioning programs. Based on the current literature, prescription of core stability exercises should vary based on the phase of training and the health status of the athlete. During preseason and in-season mesocycles, free weight exercises performed while standing on a stable surface are recommended for increases in core strength and power. Free weight exercises performed in this manner are specific to the core stability requirements of sports-related skills due to moderate levels of instability and high levels of force production. Conversely, during postseason and off-season mesocycles, Swiss ball exercises involving isometric muscle actions, small loads, and long tension times are recommended for increases in core endurance. Furthermore, balance board and stability disc exercises, performed in conjunction with plyometric exercises, are recommended to improve proprioceptive and reactive capabilities, which may reduce the likelihood of lower extremity injuries.
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The mean velocity of 9 out of 10 women's events during the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials was greater in 1984 as compared to 1976. Three of the 10 men's events showed improvement. In 9 out of these 12 events, the increased velocity was accounted for by increased distance per stroke (range, 4 to 16%), and in 8 there was also a decrease in stroke rate (range, - 3 to -13%). In the women's 100-m butterfly and 100-m backstroke, increased velocity was due solely to faster stroke rates. The finalists in each event were compared to those whose velocities were 3-7% slower. In almost all events and stroke styles, the finalists achieved greater distances per stroke than did the slower group. In the men's events increased distance per stroke was associated with decreased stroke rate, except in the backstroke, in which both were increased for the finalists. Although the faster women swimmers generally had greater distances per stroke,they were more dependent than men on faster stroke rates to achieve superiority. The profile of velocity for races of 200 m and longer indicated that as fatigue developed the distance per stroke decreased. The faster swimmers compensated for this change by maintaining or increasing stroke rate more than did their slower competitors. This study indicates that improvements and superiority in stroke mechanics are reflected in the stroke rate and distance per stroke used to swim a race. (C)1985The American College of Sports Medicine