Effect of Reverse Periodization on Some Physical Variables and Record Level for Freestyle Sprint Swimmers

This study investigates the impact of reverse periodization (RP) on specific physical variables and the record levels of short-distance freestyle swimmers. A total of 20 junior swimmers aged 17-18 years participated in the study, divided into an experimental group (trained using RP) and a control group (trained traditionally); participants were selected intentionally from the swimmers of Al-Hawar Sports Club who registered with the Egyptian Swimming Federation for the training season 2023/2024. The training program was implemented during the special preparation period from 15 \ 12 \2023 to 10\2\2024 under the supervision of the researcher and team coaches at Al-Hawar Club. The results verified that the proposed program had a positive effect on developing specific physical variables for free style swimmers. in addition, the training program significantly improved the record level in 50m and 100m swimming events. finally, the experimental group, which underwent reverse periodization, outperformed the control group, which followed traditional training methods, in both specific physical abilities and personal records. It is recommended to apply the proposed program to other age groups, extend this study with its variables to other distances or swimming styles, and ensure the selection of scientifically calibrated training programs using reverse periodization that suit the swimmers' abilities to achieve the highest training levels and enable swimmers to break their records.