Abstract

This study was done to analyze the relationship between ratings of somatotype components and sprinting speed in the water of competitive swimmers at four different phases of training. The following measurements were taken: triceps, subscapular, suprailiac and medical calf skinfolds, condylar diameters of the humerus and femur, girths of the upper arm when flexed with muscles contracted, height and weight, and girth of the calf. Results: Although somatotype can be an important factor in swimming performance, it was not related strongly enough to allow predictions of small changes in one variable, such as speed in the water. The results of this study also show that endomorphy in male swimmers may limit their swimming speed. Schiffer