The effectiveness of reactive water pressure training in developing speed-strength and achieving 50m freestyle swimming

Abstract

The need to improve performance in sprints, particularly the 50-meter freestyle, prompted this study to examine the effectiveness of training using reactive water pressure in developing "speed-specific strength" in swimmers. Speed-specific strength refers to the ability of muscles to produce high force at a clear speed, and is a crucial element in improving start times and during critical periods of the race. The study aimed to develop a training program based on reactive water pressure to develop speed-specific strength, to identify the program's effect on improving speed-specific strength in students, and to identify the effect of reactive water pressure training on achieving the 50-meter freestyle swimming milestone. The study relied on an experimental design, where a group of swimmers in Nineveh Governorate were selected and given a reactive water pressure training program for (4) weeks, with specific weekly sessions. The program included water exercises using variable water resistance tools that interact with body movement, such as reactive resistance, degrees of speed, and short resistance times, with an emphasis on performing at the maximum possible speed, and a balance between training and rest periods to reduce muscle fatigue and ensure recovery.