Abstract

Synchronized swimming was studied to determine the methods of training used in this sport, the types of injuries sustained by the athletes, and the specific aspects of the sport that are associated with injuries. A questionnaire was distributed to all the elite synchronized swimmers in Canada. Eighty-five returned and valid questionnaires were statistically evaluated. Results showed that the training season is divided into a conditioning period with emphasis on synchronized swimming, speed swimming, and weight training drills, and a routine preparation period with emphasis on practicing routines and compulsory figures. Forty-five percent of swimmers were injured during the last full training season. The breakdown of injuries by anatomic site was shoulder 41, knee 33, lumbar spine 8, elbow 8, other 10. Shoulder injuries were most often diagnosed as rotator cuff tendinitis. The aggravating actions were butterfly, freestyle, support scull, propellor scull, and vertical boost. Knee injuries were most often diagnosed as patello-femoral pain syndrome. The aggravating actions were eggbeater, eggbeater boost, and whip kick. Back injuries were aggravated by positions requiring extreme extension of the spine. Overuse injuries are common in synchronized swimming. An understanding of the basic elements of this sport is helpful in treating these athletes. Verf.-Referat