Effects of balance training on the kinematic characteristics of flutter kicking in juvenile swimmers

Abstract

Background: In swimming the crawl stroke technique has a propulsive and stabilising effect on the swimmer's displacement.

Objectives: Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the effects of a balance training programme on the kinematic characteristics of the crawl stroke in juvenile swimmers.

Method: The methodology used is quasi-experimental, where we worked with 15 subjects (8=group A and 7=group B), with an average age of 12.6 years, a weight of 44.6±3.9 kg and a height of 154±3.8 cm.

Results: The results indicated that balance training decreases the velocities and distances of the centre of gravity movement and manages to reduce the size of the vortex area produced by the crawl stroke.

Conclusions: In conclusion, balance training contributes to the development of crawl stroke technique.

Key words: Swimming, aquatic, crawl stroke and performance.