ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF SWIMMING TRAINING ON THE 400M FREESTYLE TEST

Abstract

Swimming and water exercise are effective methods for improving physical fitness, endurance, and swimming technique. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of swimming training on the results of the 400-meter freestyle test (choice of stroke or style), focusing on changes in time, technique selection, and differences in progress between beginner and advanced swimmers. Swimming represents a complex physical activity that involves the interaction of technical execution, endurance, and energy efficiency. A swimmer's effectiveness often depends on the ability to coordinate biomechanical factors and physiological adaptations, such as improved aerobic capacity, efficient oxygen usage, and enhanced movement patterns. The study included 19 participants who attended a structured swimming program once a week for 8 months. The program was designed to include exercises for improving technique, endurance, and speed, as well as targeted work on optimizing energy expenditure. Results showed that participants improved their average swimming time by 5.9% after completing the program. The analysis also revealed changes in swimming technique preferences, with more participants adopting more economical techniques, such as front crawl and a front crawl-breaststroke combination, after the training. The study confirmed that beginner swimmers achieved greater progress compared to advanced swimmers, which can be attributed to the greater adaptability of those with less prior experience. However, due to the small sample size, statistically significant differences between the groups could not be confirmed. The findings of the study emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to swimming training, encompassing both physiological and biomechanical aspects. Further research could expand insights by examining longer time periods, different age groups, or the use of various tools, providing a more in-depth understanding of the long-term effects of swimming training.