Analyzing Hand Force in Swimming: Three Typical Limiting Factors
Rod Havriluk, Ph.D.
American Swimming Magazine, 2006(3), 14-18.
Technique analysis by hand force has received considerable attention in the swimming literature. Some of the focus has been on describing the characteristics of fast swimmers (e. g. Rouard, Schleihauf, & Troup, 1996; Schleihauf et al., 1988). However, all the characteristics of fast swimmers are not necessarily positive elements of technique. The purpose of this article is to explain the importance of hand force in swimming and how even the fastest swimmers in the world limit their performance by their pattern of application of hand force.
Once a limiting factor is detected, a swimmer can make the necessary change in technique. Changes in hand path, pitch, and/or speed may be appropriate. These changes minimize the bilateral differences, force losses, and wasted motion, resulting in a higher average hand force. Because of the relationship of hand force and swimming velocity, an increase in hand force will result in faster swimming.
Conclusion
An analysis of a swimmer’s hand force can identify factors that limit performance. The examples above are three of the most common limiting factors in swimming. These limiting factors are generally undetectable with naked eye observation. Even with the aid of underwater video, the magnitude of the force variations is unknown. The combined video and force data make it possible to determine exactly where in the stroke cycle that the limitation occurs, the magnitude of the force variations, and the movements responsible.
Once detecting a limiting factor, a coach can address a change in technique. Changes in hand path, pitch, and/or speed may be appropriate. These changes can minimize the bilateral differences, force losses, and wasted motion, resulting in a higher average hand force. Because of the relationship of hand force and swimming velocity as shown in Figure 1, an increase in hand force will result in faster swimming.
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