EFFECTS OF IMPOSED CYCLE FREQUENCY TRAINING ON THE HEAVE AND PITCH PHASE RELATIONSHIPS IN UNDULATORY UNDERWATER SWIMMING

Abstract

This study compared the effects of training at a self-selected preferred cycle frequency (PF) with an identical imposed cycle frequency (IF) on the heave and pitch phase relationship in undulatory underwater swimming (UUS), to examine the effects of frequency imposition on coordination. Kinematic data were recorded from 16 skilled swimmers performing maximal UUS prior to and during 4-weeks UUS training at either their PF or an IF set at their preferred frequency, with weekly testing sessions and final retest session 2-weeks post training. No differences in maximal swimming velocity were found. No differences were found in heave and pitch phase relationship between training groups. Further research is required to establish the efficacy of heave and pitch coupling as an effective measure of UUS behaviour in skilled swimmers.