THE DIFFERENT PHASES OF THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE DO NOT INFLUENCE THE PERFORMANCE OF SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING ATHLETES

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Knowledge regarding the influence of the phases of the menstrual cycle on the performance is still inconclusive. Objective: To analyze the physical and technical performance of synchronized swimmers in three different phases of the menstrual cycle. Methods: Six athletes of national level (age: 17.6±6.15) with normal menstrual cycle were evaluated considering the following phases of the menstrual cycle, namely, follicular (F), ovulatory (O) and luteal (L). Anthropometric, and neuromotor parameters, vertical displacement, eggbeater kick and performance in the technical routine were evaluated. Results: No changes were found in the anthropometric parameters, strength of the upper limbs (F; O; L); abdominal (F; O; L) and flexibility (F; O; L). In the specific tests, vertical displacement, eggbeater kick (F; O; L), and technical performance (F: 77±4; O: 80±5; L: 77±4 points) did not change throughout the menstrual cycle. Conclusion: The data of the present study indicate that the phases of the menstrual cycle do not directly influence the performance of synchronized swimming athletes.

Keywords:
menstrual cycle; athletic performance; sports/physiology; swimming