The effects of drafting on training and performance capacity
When a swimmer drafts behind another swimmer, the hydrodynamic conditions are identical in effects to those afforded by aerodynamics.
Drafting produced a 5% reduction in energy cost which translated into a 6% increase in swimming speed. Physiological measures and perceived exertion reflected the lower energy cost while drafting. Distance per stroke and stroking frequency were increased.
This could be a problem during training when swimmers use circle patterns in the same lane. Specific training objectives could be compromised because of easier work when drafting is allowed.
Implications:
Several actions need to be taken when drafting is a problem during training.
1.Prescribed paces should be at least 5% faster.
2.Shorter work:recovery ratios can be used to increase the energy demands to compensate for the reduced loads of drafting.
3.Provide the largest distance between each swimmer to avoid the drafting condition.
| Subjects: | |
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| Notations: | endurance sports |
| Language: | English |
| Online Access: | https://coachsci.sdsu.edu/swim/bullets/icar8990/icar115.htm |
| Document types: | article |
| Level: | intermediate |