Overview article in the course of the introduction of new starting block models - Biomechanical basics of the starting jump in swimming

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of research on the topic of swimming starts by the Training and Exercise working group at the University of Kassel, a review article was published in the journal Sportwissenschaft. The start jump in swimming is an essential prerequisite for competitive success in both individual competitions over short swimming distances and relay competitions. With the introduction of a longer and steeper starting block, which has an additional push-off aid for the feet and allows handholds to be attached to the side, the starting performance will become more important in the future. While grab starts and step starts have been observed in equal measure in international competitions up to now, there is much to suggest that the latter starting technique will prevail in view of the new starting block design. With the introduction of the new starting block, this article summarizes the previous findings on swimming starts with the conventional block. After introductory explanations on estimating the starting performance, findings on the different take-off techniques, immersion and power development on the block are discussed. Overall, advantages tended to be identified for the step start (with an initial body weight load on the rear leg) and a shallow dip. The rotational momentum around the width axis creates favorable conditions that enable a steep water entry (combined with a dolphin leg kick with previously hyperextended hips). Finally, the article also includes findings on the relay start and the expected change in movement technique due to the new starting block.

Kibele, A., Fischer S. & Biel, K. (2011). Biomechanical principles of the start jump in swimming. Review article in the course of the introduction of new starting block models. Sports Science, 41 (3), 202-215