Determinant kinantropometric factors in swimming

Abstract

The aim of this work is to present a bibliographic review, based on the specialized literature, of the kineantropometric characteristics of swimmers and their importance for swimming performance. The main conclusions were: (i) swimmers are taller and heavier than the general population; (ii) swimmers present an high index of arm span/height (explained by a large biacromial diameter and long the upper arm); (iii) high values for the biacromial/bicristal diameter ratio were found, offering a lower drag coeffi cient; (iv) high length and surface area arm and leg values were observed (which positively infl uence their propulsion capacity); (v) elite male swimmers presents a ectomorph-endomorph somatotype and elite female swimmers are central or balanced mesomorphs (vi) swimmers exhibit a higher percentage of body mass than other athletes, which may benefi t positively their fl oatation.