Clinical method to assess shoulder strength related to front crawl swimming power in male collegiate swimmers

Abstract

[Purpose] Although a correlation has been reported between shoulder strength and maximum swimming power during arm-only swimming, the correlation between shoulder strength and maximum swimming power during front crawl swimming remains unclear. This study aimed to confirm the validity of a clinical assessment method for shoulder strength related to front crawl swimming power. [Participants and Methods] Study participants included 9 healthy male collegiate swimmers. Shoulder strength, including extension and internal rotation torque and swimming power, were measured. [Results] Maximum swimming power was significantly correlated with extension torque in the position of maximum shoulder abduction on the dominant side (r=0.844). No significant correlations were observed between the swimming velocity-to-swimming power ratio and the rate of bilateral differences in extension torque in the position of maximum shoulder abduction. [Conclusion] The extensor strength in the position of maximum shoulder abduction was significantly correlated with the maximum swimming power, suggesting that this assessment method is useful for front crawl swimmers. Notably, measurements on the dominant side may provide useful data that are essential in training to improve front crawl swimming propulsion.