Abstract

This study examines the differences in performance indicators for the 50, 100 and 200 metre freestyle finals. 384 swimmers at the European Swimming Championships in 25 and 50 metre swimming pools were analysed. A range of variables were used including time, speed, cycle frequency, cycle length and swimming rate, performing comparative analysis by gender, races and pools. The results showed that men were faster, with lower times and frequency levels in 200 m races. By contrast, women presented lower values in cycle lengths and rates in the 100 and 200 m races. In the comparison between pools, there are significant differences in final times, interval speeds and cycle frequencies in the 200 m races. Finally, there were significant differences in all indicators, except for the swimming rate, in the comparative averages depending on the races.