Analysis Of The Effects Of Apnea Training On The Kinematic Characteristics Of Male Short-distance Freestyle Swimming Technique

PURPOSE: To assess the effects of breath-holding training on the short-distance freestyle technique of 16 male national-level swimmers, using a 3D motion capture system to monitor changes in performance and key kinematic indicators before and after the intervention. METHODS: Sixteen male national-level swimmers with FINA scores above 510 were randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 8) that underwent breath-holding training and a control group (n = 8) that continued with regular training. The training program lasted for 6 weeks, with 3 sessions per week. Pre- and post-training assessments included 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle times, key respiratory function indicators, and upper limb kinematic indicators. The 3D motion capture system recorded data from the 15-meter to 35-meter segments of the 100-meter freestyle swim. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significant improvements in start phase time (0.34 seconds, p < 0.05) and 100-meter freestyle time (1.91 seconds, p < 0.05), while the control group did not show significant changes (p > 0.05). In the experimental group, the maximum speed in the first 50-meter segment increased by 0.06 m/s, and in the second 50-meter segment, the maximum speed increased by 0.08 m/s and the minimum speed by 0.06 m/s (all p < 0.05). The average swimming speed in the second 50-meter segment also increased significantly by 0.05 m/s (p < 0.05). Additionally, the stroke count in the second 50-meter segment decreased by 2.25 strokes (p ≤ 0.05), and the stroke index increased by 0.35 (p ≤ 0.05). Kicking frequency in the second 50-meter segment increased by 16.38 kicks per minute (p < 0.05). Stroke length in both 50-meter segments increased by 0.16 m and 0.14 m, respectively (p < 0.05), and the number of breaths in the second 50-meter segment decreased by 3.75 (p < 0.05). Maximal oxygen uptake increased by 513.5 ml (p < 0.05), and lung capacity increased by 248.13 ml (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Breath-holding training can significantly improve the start phase and second 50-meter segment performance in 100-meter freestyle for male swimmers, leading to enhanced overall 100-meter freestyle performance. It also increases average swimming speed, reduces the number of breaths, and improves stroke efficiency and energy utilization during the second 50-meter segment.