KEY BREATH-HOLDING PARAMETERS IN ELITE ARTISTIC SWIMMING TEAMS UNDER THE 2022–2025 World Aquatics REGULATIONS

Abstract

Aim. This study aimed to identify breath-holding standards for elite artistic swimming teams during the free routine performance at the 2020 (2021) Olympic Games. The goal was to help elite athletes minimize potential long-term health risks associated with prolonged breath-holding. Materials and methods. The study analyzed variables such as the time spent above and below the water surface, the classification and number of hybrids, the timing of each hybrid, and the numerical value assigned to each hybrid. Results. The findings revealed an inverse relationship between prolonged breath-holding and the quality of performance in the free routine. The best ratio between breath-holding underwater and breathing above the water is 1:1, with underwater durations not exceeding 25 seconds and the number of hybrids limited to a maximum of 8. Conclusion. To mitigate the risk of REDs and its associated negative health impacts, breathing patterns should be adjusted to the athlete’s functional fitness and specific performance requirements.