PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if a two-week pool-based technique training intervention improved sprint paddle performance, specifically velocity and technique, in an elite female surfer. The overarching aim of this project was to provide a structured training program for female surfing athletes as they prepare to paddle into waves of consequence at the 2024 Paris Olympics at Teahupo’o, Tahiti.

METHODS: This study involved a single elite female athlete who recently competed on the World Championship Tour (WCT). The athlete completed baseline testing prior to a two-week control period. Assessments were then administered pre and post the two-week training intervention, followed by a two-week non-trained retention period and a final testing session. Outcome metrics included 15-m sprint velocity with accompanying video analysis for temporal spatial measures, as well as gym-based tests assessing upper body strength and range of motion (ROM). The athlete underwent a targeted technique training program of ten, one-hour sessions consisting of dryland warm-up exercises and pool-based drills designed to improve paddling technique, specifically catch and reach position.

RESULTS: The athlete recorded the following results during a 15-m sprint paddle effort post-training: increased acceleration (time to fastest metre) [pre: 5.84 s at 8-9 m, post: 3.52 s at 4-5 m], decreased stroke count [pre: 23 strokes, post: 20 strokes], increased stroke distance [pre: right (R) =1.32 m left (L) =1.35 m, post: R=1.54 m L=1.51 m], further distance covered in pull phase [pre: R=0.32 m L=0.33 m, post: R=0.37 m L=0.38 m], and an elongated recovery phase [pre: R=0.38 s L=0.40 s, post: R=0.47 s L=0.47 s]. Training led to noticeable gains in internal shoulder strength and pull-up performance. Additionally, the thoracic ROM became more symmetrical. The athlete also perceived improvement in body awareness and sprint paddling ability in the surfing environment.

CONCLUSION: A two-week pool-based technique training intervention provided improvement in sprint paddling performance. Future research should examine possibilities for more compact training programs to align with the dynamic nature of the sport of surfing.

Disclosure[s]: The authors have nothing to disclose.

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