The Effect of Trunk Muscle Exercises on Developing Some Functional Variables and Achieving 100m Freestyle Performance

Abstract

This research aims to determine the effect of specific exercises, including various land and water training equipment and methods, on developing the anterior abdominal muscles, the oblique muscles on the sides of the abdomen, the transversus abdominis muscle, the lower back muscles, the pelvic muscles, and the gluteal muscles (buttocks) that help stabilize the pelvis. It also aims to improve performance in the 100m freestyle and enhance heart rate efficiency, vital capacity, and FEV1 through plank and side plank exercises, as well as other exercises and various equipment. To achieve the research objective, the researcher selected ten participants regularly attending training sessions. Both groups completed the training program prepared by their respective instructors in its entirety, except that the experimental group incorporated core strengthening exercises into their daily training sessions. The researchers conducted tests before and after the eight-week study period, which consisted of three training sessions per week. The results were statistically analyzed for both groups. The researchers found that the 100m freestyle swimming time improved in the group that incorporated the exercises, along with an increase in functional variables. Therefore, the researchers recommended incorporating diverse training equipment and emphasizing core muscle training due to its impact on improving functional systems and performance levels.