Applicability of an Indirect VO2max Test: Its Association with the 400 Meters Freestyle Performance

Abstract

-The aim of this study was to evaluate the VO2max using a previously validated indirect test for non-expert adult swimmers and to verify its connection with the 400 meters freestyle test. A total of 17 non-expert male swimmers (21.5 ± 3.12 years) were evaluated. Body composition measurements included body weight (74 ± 9.41 kg), height (172.9 ± 5.21 cm) and body fat percentage (15.2 ± 4.15 %). Two tests were conducted on different days; the 400 meters freestyle (400 MF) and the Progressive Swim Test (PSwT), respectively. The participant's heart rate frequency before and after the test (BHR and AHR) was analyzed, as well as the subjective perception of effort (RPE), the number of laps covered (NLP), and the time of test execution measured in minutes. Significant differences were identified in all variables (p < 0.05) with the exception of BHR. An inverse correlation (r > -0.60) was found between AHR and execution time (r > -0.70), as well as between the VO2max estimated by the PSwT and the 400 MF performance test (r > -0.70). The Bland-Altman Plot showed that the values discovered were within the established concordance limits of 95% (±1.96 SD). A negative correlation between a swimming test and a test that estimates the VO2max occurred, and the PSwT showed results of greater approximation of the aerobic power of non-expert swimmers. In conclusion, the PSwT is applicable for non-expert adult swimmers.

Reliability and Validity of a Flume-Based Maximal Oxygen Uptake Swimming Test

“…The characteristics of the present study’s flume protocol allowed for systematic increases in velocity (aggressiveness and duration) similar to supramaximal paradigms that are shorter in duration and more aggressive. Such protocols have exhibited similar VO 2 max values compared to protocols with more conservative, graded, or ramped characteristics [ 31 , 37 , 38 , 39 ]. However, as a result of shorter test stages, identification of a metabolic steady state and precise individual swimming velocities by stage were not possible.…”

Study of somatic, motor and functional effects of practicing initiation programs in water gymnastics and swimming by students of physical education and sports

“…Studies on the improvement of cardio-respiratory capacity and of body composition following gymnastics in water have been performed by numerous authors [12,[15][16][17][18].…”

“…Studies on the dynamics of physiological indicators, VO2max, heart rate, fitness index, on people aged 20-26 years old after swimming have been performed by numerous field researchers [17,22,23,24] who found out improvements in the vital and cardiac capacity.…”