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Sports Medicine
Published in: Sports Medicine 7/2018

01-07-2018 | Systematic Review

Pacing in Swimming: A Systematic Review

Authors: Katie E. McGibbon, D. B. Pyne, M. E. Shephard, K. G. Thompson

Published in: Sports Medicine | Issue 7/2018

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Abstract

Background

Pacing strategy, or how energy is distributed during exercise, can substantially impact athletic performance and is considered crucial for optimal performance in many sports. This is particularly true in swimming given the highly resistive properties of water and low mechanical efficiency of the swimming action.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the pacing strategies utilised by competitive swimmers in competition and their reproducibility, and to examine the impact of different pacing strategies on kinematic, metabolic and performance variables. This will provide valuable and practical information to coaches and sports science practitioners.

Data Sources

The databases Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and PubMed were searched for published articles up to 1 August 2017.

Study Selection

A total of 23 studies examining pool-based swimming competitions or experimental trials in English-language and peer-reviewed journals were included in this review.

Results

In short- and middle-distance swimming events maintenance of swimming velocity is critical, whereas in long-distance events a low lap-to-lap variability and the ability to produce an end spurt in the final lap(s) are key. The most effective strategy in the individual medley (IM) is to conserve energy during the butterfly leg to optimise performance in subsequent legs. The pacing profiles of senior swimmers remain relatively stable irrespective of opponents, competition stage or type, and performance time.

Conclusion

Implementing event-specific pacing strategies should benefit the performance of competitive swimmers. Given differences between swimmers, there is a need for greater individualisation when considering pacing strategy selection across distances and strokes.
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Metadata
Title
Pacing in Swimming: A Systematic Review
Authors
Katie E. McGibbon
D. B. Pyne
M. E. Shephard
K. G. Thompson
Publication date
01-07-2018
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Sports Medicine / Issue 7/2018
Print ISSN: 0112-1642
Electronic ISSN: 1179-2035
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-018-0901-9

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