The strength of lower limbs in elite gymnasts and swimmers

Critical moments during gymnastic exercises are those related to landing and suppressing overloads, transmitted through lower limbs. A swimmer’s lower limbs provide a good body position in the water and maintain the balance. Both in sports authors postulate reaching bilateral, steady development of the athlete’s body. The main aim was identification and a comparative analysis of the hip, knee and ankle joints flexors and extensors strength, of highly qualified gymnasts and swimmers. Ten healthy subjects participated in the investigation. Five gymnasts (22.2 ±7.3 y.o., 169.4 ±3.91 cm, 64.4 ±3.78 kg) and five swimmers (20.5 ±1.3 y.o., 186.2 ±1.64 cm, 78.4 ±2.61 kg) were highly qualified Polish athletes. Strength measurements were made on Biodex S4 isokinetic dynamometer. Subjects performed hip extension/flexion in lying position, knee extension/flexion and ankle plantar/dorsi flexion. Strength parameters of the lower limbs differentiate gymnasts and swimmers. Lower limb’s strength parameters can be used during training, control, selection or prevention. To achieve a high sport level, swimmers must demonstrate higher strength parameters of lower limbs than gymnasts. The value of work in the maximum repetition (MRW) should be thoroughly analyzed. Hig