The Influence of Functional Abilities and Morphological Characteristics on Success in Apnea

Objectives: The main goal of this research was to determine to what extent the competitors’ functional abilities and morphological characteristics hypothetically explain the results achieved in static and dynamic apnea and offer a prediction. Methods: The study included 35 artistic swimmers, body height of 162.98 ± 5.252 cm and body weight of 51.47 ± 5.578 kg that is in the regular training process and competes in the junior competitions. Morphological characteristic variables were obtained by analyzing the subjects’ body composition by the bioelectric impedance method (BIA). Variables for the functional abilities assessment were determined by two tests: forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume (FEV). The influence of functional abilities and morphological characteristics on the results in static and dynamic apnea was assessed by regression analysis. Results: The results show that functional abilities and morphological characteristics have a significant influence on the diving results. Conclusion: These results are important for the selection and effective training during the training period and can influence the appropriate specific training programs development. They can be used for the optimal preparation of all competitors in water sports (swimmers, water polo players, artistic swimmers and athletes practicing apnea).