Cachel, H., & daSilva, S. G. (20006). Changes in critical velocity according to age in swimming master athletes. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 1572.

This study examined changes in critical velocity with age and the association between critical velocity and 800-m freestyle performance in swimming master athletes (M = 36; F = 36). Performances in the distances of 100, 200, 400 and 800-m freestyle events at the World Master Championships (2002 and 2004) by Ss were used in this study. Ss were divided in three age groups (30-44, 45-59, and 60-74 years-old). Critical velocity for each S was calculated by linear regression, using the 100, 200 and 400-m performance times.

Critical velocity declined in both genders with advancing age in the groups. Differences were significant between the oldest and youngest groups. Critical velocity was correlated significantly to 800-m performance in both genders and each age-group.

Implication. Critical velocity decreases with age in master swimmers. The decrease is most marked in the oldest age group (>60 yr).

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