Performance analysis of elite lifesavers during competition: effects related to gender, turn of competition, and age category

The aim of this study was to analyse elite lifesavers' official performances according to specific intermediate times recorded during each speciality, and comparing them in relation to genders, turns of competition (qualifications; finales), and age (seniors; youths) categories. For this purpose, the intermediate times of 825 (female: 423, male: 402) individual performances were recorded by means of the official stopwatch of championship and two video cameras synchronised with the official stopwatch of competition. A linear mixed-effects model was applied to verify subgroup differences (p <= 0.05). For single specialty, differences emerged for each observed variables (p <= 0.001). Differences (p range: <0.001-0.03) were confirmed for the interactions with specific intermediate times, excepting for those in "Manikin Tow with Fins - 100 m" with each variable, in "Manikin Carry with Fins - 100 m" with age, and in "Obstacle Swim - 200 m" with gender and age. Therefore, elite lifesaving coaches will be able to benefit from the results of this study, considering specific performances, avoiding any generalisation, and promoting more aware training sessions.