Abstract

Monitoring and performance analysis of elite swimmers during training and competition is an under-developed area of research due to difficulties in collecting data while the athletes are in the water. A monitoring system which can provide timely feedback to the swimmer, coach and sports scientist regarding the performance and physiological capabilities of an athlete is critical for the development of optimised personal training plans that could ensure a swimmer’s continued improvement and enhance their ability to win medals in major competitions. This paper is focused on the development of the requirements of such a monitoring system. A critical review of current monitoring systems that are in use in swimming training has been carried out and has identified areas where technology is currently being used. These technologies include video analysis, pressure and force measurements, velocity and acceleration measurements and physiological monitoring. Suitable technologies for a novel integrated and distributed monitoring system have been identified and a proto-type demonstrator, which is as non-invasive and non-encumbering as possible, is currently under development at Loughborough University. This prototype provides both inter and intra stroke information as well as video augmentation and a comprehensive web-based training database to provide a comprehensive monitoring system for swimming. Verf.-Referat