Effects of dry-land and swim-bench training on swimming performance parameters in children

This study investigated the effects of dry-land (ballistic) and swim-bench training on swimming performance parameters in amateur child swimmers. A total of 19 swimmers aged 10–11 years (age = 10.50 ± 0.77 years; training age = 2.74 ± 0.65 years) voluntarily participated and were randomly assigned to either a dry-land training group (DLT, n = 10) or a swim-bench training group (SBT, n = 9). The experimental design consisted of an eight-week repeated-measures protocol, including one week of pre-tests, six weeks of training intervention, and one week of post-tests. Participants completed 50 m and 200 m sprint swimming tests, bent-arm hang, vertical jump, standing long jump, sit-up, and medicine ball throw tests during both pre- and post-test sessions. In addition, the ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) were assessed after each training session. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements over time in all performance parameters (p < 0.05). However, no significant group main effect or time × group interaction was observed (p > 0.05). RPE and PACES scores decreased progressively throughout the intervention in both groups (p < 0.001), reflecting the athletes' psychophysiological adaptation to training. In conclusion, both dry-land and swim-bench training programs produced similar improvements in physical and performance parameters associated with swimming performance, while reductions in RPE and PACES scores indicated adaptations at the psychophysiological level. These findings suggest that both training methods can be effective approaches to enhance swimming performance in 10–11-year-old swimmers.