Research

Thesis title: "The influence of maximum strength on start performance in swimming: An analysis of biomechanical parameters and training effects"

Thesis outline: For elite swimmers, victory is often determined by milliseconds. Particularly in short-distance events, the start of a race – comprising the push-off, flight, and underwater phases – plays a decisive role in overall performance. Despite its significance, the interplay between strength and technique during the swim start remains underexplored in sport science. My PhD research at the University of Vienna addresses this gap by investigating how maximum strength training combined with targeted technique work affects swim start performance over time.

This interdisciplinary project merges sports science with cutting-edge technology. At the heart of the study is Austria's first mobile swim start measurement block, developed in collaboration with the Lower Austrian Swimming Federation and the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt. The device integrates high-precision force sensors and optical tracking to capture detailed biomechanical data, such as joint angles, take-off velocity, and impulse generation.

In a 12-week longitudinal intervention, 40 competitive swimmers will be divided into an experimental and a control group. The intervention group will undergo a structured strength training programme focusing on the squat, alongside specific start jump technique sessions. Performance will be assessed using entrance and exit tests measuring key biomechanical parameters. The aim is to determine how improved leg strength and optimal joint positioning – particularly a 60° rear knee angle – correlate with improved start dynamics.

Supervisors: Arnold Baca and Klaus Wirth (FH Wiener Neustadt)
Advisor: Markus Hochrainer

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