Preventative Exercise for Collegiate Swimmers
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Authors
Quigley, Kristen Grace
Issue Date
2025
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Swimming research has determined that rounded shoulders, a forward head and scapular dyskinesis are common imbalances that may lead to injuries without correction. Purpose: Evaluate a preventative exercise program designed to reduce injuries, correct postural deviations, and improve shoulder function over one collegiate swimming season. Methods: Twenty female NCAA Division I swimmers (average age=21.59±1.34 years) participated, completing pre-, mid- and post-season assessments of injury rates, shoulder range of motion, and stability using standardized tests. The intervention consisted of corrective exercises performed twice weekly for 25 weeks. Results: Swimmers who completed the program were 44% less likely to sustain an upper extremity injury compared to those without intervention. Significant improvements were observed in upper body stability, shoulder internal rotation and total range of motion. Conclusion: These findings suggest that a targeted corrective exercise program can effectively reduce injury rates and improve shoulder mobility and function in collegiate athletes.