Effects of First-Time Handle Starts on Swimming Performance Using a New Starting Block

Abstract

　The purpose of this study was to compare the kinematic variables of the handle start, which uses a starting block equipped with handles, and the kick start, which does not involve handles, in male competitive swimmers. Additionally, the study aimed to examine the effects of the immediate adoption of the handle start in a competitive setting.

　Eight high school swimmers and four collegiate swimmers participated in the study. Each swimmer performed two kick starts, completed two practice sessions of the handle start, and conducted two handle-start trials with maximum effort. Two video cameras (60 fps) were used to capture kinematic data. The study specifically analyzed hand-off time, block time, 15-m time, attitude angle at take-off, attitude angle on entry, and horizontal velocity at take-off. Two sample t-tests and effect sizes were used to compare the kinematic variables.

　The results revealed that the hand-off time (p = 0.02), block time (p = 0.03), and 15-m time (p = 0.03) were significantly longer for the handle start compared to the kick start. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in the attitude angle at take-off, attitude angle on entry, or horizontal velocity at take-off. Based on the results of this study, it is not recommended to introduce the handle start in competitive settings without adequate prior practice.