Jeanne Dekerle explored the use of critical velocity (CV) and critical stroke rate in setting training loads for swimmers. CV is now regarded as the highest intensity that does not allow VO2Max to be attained during exercise with a constant load. It is the velocity that can be sustained for a prolonged period. CV may be indicated as the average velocity in a 30 minute test.

CV can be used to individualise training loads to optimise the physiological training response while avoiding overtraining. For example, long interval training  could be 6 to 10 x 400m swims at CV with 15s rest.  While swimming long intervals around CV is good for improving aerobic capacity, short interval training above CV e.g. 20-30 * 100m at 110% CV with 30s rest; 1min. at 120% CV, 1min rest for 20 minutes can increase can increase anaerobic capacity while enabling VO2Max to be solicited and maintained for a long time.

Critical stroke rate is defined as the highest stroke rate that can be maintained for a very long period of time. Given the well known goal of maintaining speed with increased stroke length, coaches could use CV and critical stroke rates together. For example, having training goals where CV is maintained with lower stroke rates than the critical stroke rate. Alternatively, one could aim for maintaining critical stroke rates while maintaining higher velocities than CV.

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Dekerle, J. (2006).The use of critical stroke velocity in swimming? A place for critical stroke rate?. In J.P. Vilas-Boas, F. Alves, A. Marques (eds.) Xth International Symposium on Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming, University of Porto, Porto, June, 2006. pp.201-205.

On the basis of an informative review of swimming energetics Prendergast and collaborators outlined a periodised training regimen to optimally develop both aerobic capacity and anaerobic processes. A thought provoking article with much information to underpin periodised training programmes from both the perspective of reducing energy cost and maximising useful work capacity.

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Prendergast, D.R., Capella, C., Craig,  A.B. Jr., di Prampero, P.E., Minetti, A.E., Mollendorf, J., Termin, A., and Zamparo, P. (2006).Biophysics in swimming. In J.P. Vilas-Boas, F. Alves, A. Marques (eds.) Xth International Symposium on Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming, University of Porto, Porto, June, 2006. pp.185-189.

Using protocols designed to reproduce some usual training loads of swimmers preparing for competition, Teixeira and Portuguese colleagues investigates changes in salivary antibodies in response to training. The salivary antibodies protect against viruses entering the body through the mucosal surface. When these are deficient a swimmer is prone to infection. The researchers found that while the salivary antibody levels are normal within 24 hours following intense exercise, protection is reduced during the preceding period, particularly for 1.5 to 2.5 hours after the training session. The researchers advise swimmers and coaches to be aware of the increased risk of infection during the period following intense exercise, to ‘wrap up’ after training, and to avoid crowded places.

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Teixeira, A.M., Rama, L., Martines, M., and Cunha, R. (2006). Kinetic response of salivary IGA to several exercise protocols performed by well trained swimmers. In J.P. Vilas-Boas, F. Alves, A. Marques (eds.) Xth International Symposium on Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming, University of Porto, Porto, June, 2006. pp.177-179.

Genadijus Sokolovas presented important data regarding ‘Top 100’ times of U.S. swimmers throughout competitive ages. Most top level swimmers in open competition were not highly ranked until the ages of 17-18. This study provides encouragement for young swimmers who aren’t champions at a young age. They need to ‘hang in there’. Coaches and parents need to be aware that potential for performance as an adult may not be obvious at a young age.

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Sokolovas, G. (2006). Analysis of swimming’s all-time top 100 times. In J.P. Vilas-Boas, F. Alves, A. Marques (eds.) Xth International Symposium on Biomechanics and Medicine in Swimming, University of Porto, Porto, June, 2006. pp.315-317.