Gad, M. & Abdelfatah, A. Helwan University, Cairo, Eqypt.

This study assessed the effectiveness of Ultra-short Race-pace Training (USRPT) and traditional training over 100 m freestyle swimming in junior swimmers of both genders. A group of swimmers from the Al Jazira Sporting Club was divided into 26 male and 26 female swimmers. Each group was divided into an experimental group (N = 13) and control group (N = 13). Swimmers were aged from 11 to 14 years. Ss performed six workouts per week for a period of 12 weeks. Swimmers' times for 100 m freestyle were converted into FINA points and served as data.

• The use of USRPT improved the level of swimming performance better than traditional swimming training. Both genders were affected positively despite the absolute yardage covered being much less in USRPT than in traditional training.
• USRPT did not make swimmers feel more tired than that achieved in traditional training. The amount of strain was similar between the two training models.
• USRPT produced training intensities well above those recorded for traditional training.

Implication. Based on the above results the following are recommended.

1. Coaches should use USRPT to improve performances in 100-m races of junior male and female swimmers.
2. Researchers should conduct studies to evaluate if USRPT is similarly effective for all competitive swimming distances and stroke forms.
3. Researchers should conduct studies in other time-dependent sports (e.g., cycling, triathlon, rowing) to determine if USRPT is equally as effective as it is in swimming.

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