Anaerobic power and capacity in short-, middle-and long-distance young swimmers

Abstract

Problem statement: Swimming achievements depend on the efficiency of energy supply systems that sustain muscle function. For short distances, anaerobic systems take precedence, while for middle and long distances, the significance of the aerobic system in supplying energy becomes more pronounced. Additionally, sprinters and distance swimmers possess distinct physiological traits, such as differing muscle fibre characteristics, requiring customised training protocols tailored to athletes competing across various distances. Beyond genetic predispositions and training variables, anaerobic capacity also correlates with age, showing gradual improvement with growth and maturation. Purpose: The study's primary objective was to evaluate and compare the anaerobic power and capacity among highly trained adolescent swimmers participating in short-, middle-and long-distance events. These findings offer valuable insights for more accurately assessing the anaerobic performance of young swimmers and optimising their training loads. Approach: A cohort comprising 88 swimmers (32 girls and 56 boys) aged 15–17 years participated in the study. All individuals were members of the Bulgarian Youth National Swimming Team. They were categorised into groups based not only on gender but also according to their primary event distance: short (50 and 100 m), middle (200 and 400 m) and long (800 and 1500 m). Wingate anaerobic tests were administered at the end of the general preparation phases during the training seasons over three years. Results: In girls, peak power was 272.4–694.8 W, average power 234.4–516.5 W and minimum power 142.4–360.9 W. Power drop was 95.7–362.9 W, and fatigue rate was 24–71.8%. Male swimmers' peak power was 510.3–1047 W, average power 420.5–737.8 W and minimum power 281.7–535.9 W. The minimum power drop was 162–613.1 W, and fatigue rate was 29.5–65.6%. Conclusions: Peak power among 15–17-year-old swimmers varied based on the length of their primary event. Short-distance swimmers exhibited the highest peak power values, while long-distance swimmers showed the lowest. As fatigue set in, the power differences between different types of swimmers decreased. Sprinters experienced the greatest power drop, whereas long-distance swimmers experienced the least. Interestingly, the variation in minimum power values was greater than that of peak power values across the different types of swimmers.