Anaerobic Contribution Determined in Swimming Distances: Relation with Performance

Total anaerobic contribution (TAn) can be assessed by accumulated oxygen deficit, and through sum of glycolytic and phosphagen contribution which enable the evaluation of TAn without influences on mechanical parameters. However, little is known about the difference of TAn within swimming distances. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to determine and compare the TAn in different performances using the backward extrapolation technique and amount of lactate accumulated during exercise, and relate it with swimming performance. Fourteen competitive swimmers performed five maximal front crawl swims of 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800m. The total phosphagen (AnAl) and glycolytic (AnLa) contributions were assumed as the fast component of post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOCFAST) and amount of blood lactate accumulated during exercise, respectively. TAn was the sum of AnAl and AnLa. Significantly lower values of AnLa were observed in the 800m (p < 0.01) than other distances. For AnAl, the 50m performance presented the lowest values, followed by 100 and 800m (p < 0.01). The highest values of AnAl were observed in the 200 and 400m (p > 0.13). The TAn was significantly higher in the 200 and 400m performances than observed at 50 and 800m (p < 0.01). Anaerobic contributions were correlated with 50, 100, 200, and 400m performances (p < 0.01). The AnAl contribution was not correlated with 400m performance. Anaerobic parameters were not correlated with 800m performance. In conclusion, the highest values of anaerobic contribution were observed in the 200 and 400m distances. Moreover, TAn is important to performances below 400m, and may be used in training routines.