SPORTS MEDICINE SUPPORT Step test

16.0 14.0 12.0 10.0 8.0 6.0 4.0 2.0 0.0

90.00 85.00 80.00 Time (s) KEY: Blood lactate: blue line and Heart rate: pink line

Figure 1: Data collected during the test and training zones identified for the swimmer

Swimming uses a modified version of the 7 x 200m step test devel- oped at the Australian Institute of Sport, to support swimmers with a wider range of swimming velocities. Swimmers may follow a 7 x 200m, 7 x 150m or 5 x 100m protocol. Each step (with the excep- tion of the last) is a paced swim to a set target time, off a set turn- around time (usually 5 minutes). The target times become progres- sively quicker with each step resulting in a series of evenly paced swims spanning the swimmers range of swimming velocities. The final step has no set parameters to allow the swimmer to attempt an all out maximal effort.

Following a pre-participation questionnaire, anthropometric mea- surements (height, weight and skinfolds from 7 sites) are taken prior to the test. During the step test, swim data is collected (splits, stroke rates and stroke counts) along with blood lactate measures (from the earlobe), heart rates and rate of perceived exer- tion (RPE) data. The data collected from the step test is used to provide information on the aerobic status of a swimmer and give feedback on appropriate training intensities. Figures 1 and 2 illus- trate some the data collected during the test and the training zones identified for the swimmer:

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140 160 180 200

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Written feedback from the step test is provided by the Disability Swimming Sport Science and Medicine Coordinator and includes laminated sheets for the swimmers and coaches to utilise poolside.

One of the major limitations to this test is the requirement for excel- lent pacing skills (eg. unlike laboratory tests for running/ cycling where speed/power output can be controlled and altered appropri- ately), something that even some international able-bodied swim- mers struggle with. Within the World Class programmes, some spe- cific disability groups (ie. those with cerebral palsy/learning diffi- culties) require additional support through this test because of these issues with pacing; this has included education and practise during training sessions and additional verbal support within the test.

Biomechanics support Biomechanical support is achieved through a number of methods: biomechanical assessment, coach education and applied research. Biomechanical assessment uses qualitative and quantitative video- based assessment techniques to analyse swimmers in training and in competition.

Three main types of analysis are undertaken: ■ Video analysis - this involves an initial assessment filming start, turns and strokes below and above water and a feedback session to identify strengths and weaknesses. This is followed by regular intervention sessions which monitor progress and provide imme- diate qualitative feedback for fault correction.

■ Velocity metre analysis - the velocity metre measures instanta- neous velocity. This analysis technique enables immediate feed- back of stroke data to the coach and swimmer. Applications of the velocity meter include quantifying stroke imbalance in amputee swimmers and identifying optimum stroke rates in breaststroke swimmers. In the future it is hoped that this equip- ment will provide the needed insight into different swimming techniques found within and between disability classifications, enhancing coaching and support work.

■ Race analysis - enables basic performance parameters including start time, turn time, clean swimming speed, stroke length and stroke rate, to be measured in competition. This allows strengths and weaknesses to be identified and monitors progress.

Medical support Medical support for British Disability Swimming is provided using a number of effective, co-ordinated methods: (i) globally through the governing body/team doctor; (ii) locally through the sports medi- cine doctors within the HCIs, including annual medical profiling; and (iii) a network of nurses who attend all major camps and/or competitions.

Figure 2: Training zones identified www.sportex.net

A co-ordinated profiling and monitoring programme is essential in order to ensure that overtraining is avoided and the early symptoms of illness and injury are diagnosed before they become chronic and problematic. The annual medical profiling is semi-formal in structure with the initial collection of any essential information requested by the NGB doctor (including scheduled blood screening: full blood count, ferritin, renal profile, thyroid, cortisol and testos- terone - male swimmers only), followed by time for the athlete to discuss any issues and/or concerns they may have. Any issues high- lighted during this process are followed up as appropriate.

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Blood lactate concentration (mmol/L)

Heart rate (bpm)