Effect of Taper Duration on the Time Course for Changes in Maximal Power of Elite Female Swimmers: 1622

PURPOSE: To determine if the time course for changes in maximal neuromuscular power (P) is altered as taper duration is decreased from 4 to 3 weeks. METHODS: Using an arm ergometer with inertial loading, measurements of P were made weekly and increases expressed relative to those measured during high-volume training (HV). Seven (n = 7) elite female collegiate swimmers performed their first taper (Taper1) prior to the conference championship meet (CONF) and their second taper (Taper2) prior to the national championship meet (NAT). Timing of meets was identical during the 2004 and 2005 seasons. RESULTS: The largest increase in P (18%; p < .01) during 2004 occurred 22 days after the initiation of Taper1. P was increased prior to NAT during 2004; however, this increase (12%, p < .02) was substantially less than the increase during Taper1. The largest increase in P (8.6%; p < .05) during 2005 occurred at the end of Taper2 prior to NAT. The increase in P (8.4%) prior to CONF in 2005 was similar in magnitude to the increase in P observed prior to NAT. Performance during 2004 was improved at CONF and NAT when compared to HV; however, performance was reduced at NAT when compared to CONF. Performance during 2005 was improved at CONF and this increase in performance was maintained through NAT. CONCLUSION: The reduction of Taper1 duration from 4 to 3 weeks enabled maximal neuromuscular power and performance to be obtained closer to competition.