Abstract:
In an attempt to determine the effects of a taper period on stroke rate and distance per stroke in competitive swimmers, ten highly trained Ball State University swimmers were involved in three separate trials of 300 yards (274.4m) at 80 percent of their best time for that distance. The trials took place during the pre-taper phase of training, post taper phase of training, and the post removal of body hair phase of training. The stroke rate and distance per stroke were judged using Sportline stopwatches. The swimmers' were timed every fourth arm cycle at the 175 yard and 275 yard mark of the 300 yard distance. The results of this study suggest that at submaximal effort (80 percent), there is no significant (p<0.05) change in stroke rate and distance per stroke due to a taper period or removal of body hair. The lack of decreased stroke rate and increased distance per stroke may be attributed to the intensity of the trials.