Swimming Splits 1.7

The application is designed to serve both swimmers and their coaches by providing a practical tool for race analysis and planning. Its interface allows users to select a specific swim event and input a target time, after which the app generates recommended split times. Although the underlying algorithm for dividing splits is relatively straightforward—based on percentage-based speed distribution across different race segments—it offers valuable assistance in race preparation, as accurately calculating split times during a competitive meet without such a tool is challenging. The swimmer and coach can review these suggested splits prior to competition and subsequently compare them with actual performance metrics post-race.

Current scientific research underpins the recommended split ratios for middle- and long-distance events. Generally, the initial quarter of the race should be swum at the highest speed, followed by a deceleration during the second quarter. The third and fourth quarters are advised to be marginally faster than the preceding segments, as energy contributed by anaerobic systems increases toward the latter stages. The optimal distribution of effort varies depending on stroke, with butterfly generally being the most energy-intensive, and adjustments necessary for medley events due to changing stroke techniques within that category.