Formation of Functional Reserves in Young Swimmers During Interval Training

The article presents the results of a pedagogical experiment aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a specially designed training program for 10–11-year-old swimmers during the preparatory phase of the annual macrocycle. The program had a comprehensive structure and integrated tempo, interval, and functionally oriented loads aimed at targeted activation of the aerobic, anaerobic-alactate, and anaerobic-lactate energy supply mechanisms. The study involved 86 athletes, who were divided into control and experimental groups. The dynamics of results were assessed based on swimming time over distances of 25, 50, and 800 meters using various strokes, as well as performance in interval swimming (4×50 m with fixed rest). Statistically significant improvements in special physical fitness indicators were recorded in the experimental group compared to the control. In particular, a notable reduction in the time required to complete all competitive distances was observed, indicating increased functional reserves and the effectiveness of the program's impact on energy capacity. Boys and girls in the experimental group demonstrated a substantial increase in speed endurance and improved ability to perform repeated efforts under limited recovery conditions. The dynamics in the control groups, which trained according to standard youth sports school programs, were predominantly trend- based and statistically insignificant. The results confirm the scientific and practical relevance of implementing the proposed program into the system of long-term swimmer development at the early stages of sport specialization.