On-block mechanistic determinants of start performance in high performance swimmers

This study aimed to 1) identify what starting block outcome kinetics have the greatest relationship 15 m start time; 2) investigate key mechanistic determinants of phase and how these forces are sequenced. One hundred fifty-two high-level competitive swimmers were included in study. Linear mixed modelling identified four on-block kinetic variables (work, average power, horizontal take-off velocity (HTOV), acceleration) as having a very large (R2 = 0.79–0.83) time, with power most substantial impact. On-block force sequencing started rear leg, followed by upper limb grab front leg. Further exploration underlying was performed for HTOV centre mass. Multiple linear regression resultant peak force, significant predictors 0.88). predicted using same variables, apart from inclusion instead 0.73). These findings may influence strength conditioning skill acquisition interventions designed improve swim performance.