Study of strength training on swimming performance. A systematic review

Abstract

Aims. — Strength training is not usually an important aspect of the training programme for swimmers. Instead, more emphasis is placed on traditional swimming training, which focuses mainly on endurance work. News. — This is why in this study a systematic review is carried out with the aim of observing the effects that can be caused by a swimming training programme in which strength work is carried out, while maintaining traditional swimming training. Considering the PRISMA statement, the Web of Science (WOS) database was used to search for articles, taking those published between 2017 and 2022. A total of 387 articles were identified, from which, after passing all criteria, 19 were chosen as the study sample. After analysis, it was found that addressing strength enhancement work within programming can have a positive transfer on short-medium distance swimming performance, improving force transmission and stroke biomechanics. Conclusion. — This indicates that it would be appropriate to plan the training microcycles with strength sessions separated from the swimming sessions, without increasing the training volume too much, so as not to cause greater fatigue in the swimmer.