Abstract

COSTA, Aldo Matos da; COSTA, Mário Jorge  and  MARINHO, Daniel Almeida. Critical velocity in swimming: a literature review. Motri. [online]. 2015, vol.11, n.3, pp.158-170. ISSN 1646-107X.  https://doi.org/10.6063/motricidade.2903.

Considering several non-invasive techniques to determine anaerobic threshold, the determination of critical velocity has been the topic of interest of several studies, namely under the scope of evaluation and control of training in swimming. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a literature review regarding the meaning of the critical velocity and its application in swimming. The concept origins, the critical velocity definition and the most common methodologies for its determination were addressed. The critical velocity has been known as a non-invasive measure that represents the aerobic capacity and is similar to anaerobic threshold in swimmers, independent from the competitive level. Major advantages are the easily application in field interventions without having to use heavy methods/blood samples collection, and the possibility to comprise larger samples of swimmers for further analysis. The critical velocity is a useful tool for training load prescription and seasonal monitorization that can be assessed by mean of experimental approach or using race times in competition context. The discrimination about critical velocity values regarding swimmers with different metabolic profiles and the use of the concept within the anaerobic context are aspects that need further understanding.

Keywords : evaluation; performance; swimmers; training.

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