Background
The majority of propulsive forces in swimming are
produced from the upper body with strong correlations between upper body
strength and sprint performance. There are significant gaps in the literature
relating to the impact of resistance training on swimming performance, specifically,
the transfer to swimming performance.
Objective
The aims of this systematic literature review are
(1) to explore the transfer of resistance training modalities to swimming
performance and (2) to examine the effects of resistance training on technical
aspects of swimming.
Methods
Four online databases were searched with the
following inclusion criteria: (1) journal articles with outcome measures
related to swimming performance and (2) competitive swimmers participating in a
structured resistance training programme. Exclusion criteria; (1) participants
with mean age < 16 years (2) untrained, novice, masters and paraplegic
swimmers (3) triathletes and water polo players (4) swimmers with injuries or
illness and (5) studies of starts and turns specifically. Data were extracted
using the PRISMA Guidelines and the PEDro scale was applied.
Results
For optimal transfer, specificity and low volume, high
velocity/force resistance training programmes are optimal. Stroke length is
best achieved through resistance training with low repetitions at a high
velocity/force and stroke rate, resisted swims are the most appropriate
training modality.
Conclusion
Future research is needed with respect to the
effects of long term resistance training interventions on both technical
parameters of swimming as well as overall swimming performance. The results of
such work will be highly informative for the scientific community, coaches and
athletes.