Contribution of Kinematic Variables to 100 m Breaststroke Performance

An Analytical Study of Iraqi Youth National Team Swimmers

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the contribution of selected kinematic variables to 100 m breaststroke performance among swimmers of the Iraqi Youth National Team. A descriptive survey design was employed, and the study sample consisted of eight purposively selected breaststroke swimmers. Performance and kinematic data were collected and statistically analyzed using SPSS. The results revealed statistically significant relationships between several kinematic variables and 100 m breaststroke performance. Performance in the first 50 m was positively associated with horizontal push-off distance, knee joint angle, ankle angular velocity, and glide time, while a negative relationship was found with horizontal toe acceleration. Similarly, performance in the second 50 m showed significant positive correlations with several variables related to limb motion and center-of-mass mechanics, whereas negative correlations were observed with selected acceleration and angular velocity variables. The study concluded that a number of kinematic variables constitute important determinants of breaststroke performance, highlighting the value of biomechanical analysis in evaluating technical performance and guiding training programs toward the development of the variables that contribute most effectively to athletic achievement.