Anthropometric and Physical Performance Characteristics of Swimmers

Abstract

Introduction: The study of body measurements and proportions by anthropometry is important for the identification of young talents in swimming. Therefore, the aim of this study was to a) compare the physical performance profile of swimmers on land and in water and b) understand the relationship between anthropometric and physical performance tests. Methods: To this end, 31 anthropometric variables were determined in 6 male (n=3) and female (n=3) swimmers using the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocols and VO2max laboratory tests. Body fractionation (adipose, muscle, bone, residual, and skin tissue masses) was determined using the validated Kerr & Ross five-way fractionation model for body composition. Data analysis included the person correlation coefficient. Results: The swimming performance test was positively strongly correlated with body height, seat height, arm span, shoulder and pelvic width, and arm and leg length (p ≤ 0.001). In conclusion, these studies reveal some potential key anthropometric factors in the performance of active swimmers. These results support the view that while swimmers have unique anthropometric profiles, more successful swimmers tend to have greater arm spans. Conclusion: These results suggest that anthropometric characteristics are important in swimming performance. This study concluded that improvement in swimming performance is strongly related to anthropometric and kinanthropometric profiles.