Individualized dry-land intervention program for an elite Paralympic swimmer

J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2019 Jan;59(1):82-86. doi: 10.23736/S0022-4707.18.08242-7. Epub 2018 Mar 1.

Abstract

The aim of this retrospective case study is the longitudinal description of the physical and functional parameters of a top-level Paralympic swimmer class S9-SB8-SM9 during four swimming seasons of training, from the Paralympic games in London 2012 to the Paralympic games in Rio 2016. A 22-year-old male swimmer underwent a specific preventive dry-land training based on diaphragmatic breathing, postural alignment, and slow-velocity resistance training aimed to improve his muscle strength. He was tested by using the Functional Movement Screen™, photographic postural assessment and vertical jump. The swimmer improved his functional, postural and strength parameters indicating a better functional movement and muscular power. These results show that a four-year specific dry-land intervention could be capable of enhancing the functional and physical requirements of a top-level Paralympic swimmer. This approach might be a suitable novel alternative for coaches and athletic trainers to integrate their training protocols for athletes with similar impairments.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Athletes
  • Athletic Performance / physiology
  • Diaphragm / physiology
  • Disabled Persons*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle Strength*
  • Posture
  • Resistance Training / methods*
  • Respiration
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Seasons
  • Sports for Persons with Disabilities
  • Swimming / physiology*
  • Young Adult