Analysis of the Deadlift Exercise in Relation to Swimming Performance

The world of competitive swimming focuses on intense training sessions both in and out of the pool in order for athletes to achieve optimal success. Elite swimmers participate in full body lifting programs to build strength and prevent injuries. The deadlift exercise is an important component of athletic lift programs as it strengthens the core and lower back. In this study, the straight bar deadlift and dumbbell deadlift will be investigated to determine which exercise is more beneficial for swimming performance. Twelve swimmers will participate in a four week study to evaluate the effects of each deadlift on the lower back. Shimmer accelerometers, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and an electromyograph will be used to analyze each type of deadlift. Each type of deadlift will be evaluated according to the shear, compression, and tension forces resulting from the exercise. In addition, the soreness, flexibility, and strength of each participant will be taken into account in order to understand which type of deadlift is more beneficial for swimming performance.