Kinematic variables influencing somersault turn time in medley swimmers using artificial neural networks (ANN)

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v75.118466

Keywords:

Kinematic, Influencing, Somersault Turn Time, Swimmers, Artificial Neural Networks , (ANN)

Abstract

Introduction: Efficient performance in swimming turns is a critical component of competitive success, especially in sprint and middle distance events where turn execution can significantly affect race outcomes.

Objective: Turn Time in Medley Swimmers Using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Examine selected kinematic and kinetic variables related to joint angles, propulsion characteristics, and centre of mass dynamics during the somersault turn in competitive youth medley swimmers. Analyze the relationships between these biomechanical variables and somersault turn time using Pearson’s correlation. Determine the relative and normalized importance of the investigated kinematic variables in predicting turn time through the application of an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. Identify the key biomechanical determinants of turn performance, thereby providing evidence-based insights for technique optimization and training design.

Methodology: A descriptive analytical design with a biomechanical approach was employed to investigate the kinematic variables influencing somersault turn time in competitive youth male swimmers competitive medley swimmers aged 14–15 years from Smouha Sporting Club (Egypt) participated in the study. All swimmers were officially registered with the Egyptian Swimming Federation, trained regularly without prolonged interruptions, demonstrated technical proficiency in the investigated turn technique, and showed a high competitive performance level relative to their peers.

Discussions: Findings indicate that turn performance is governed by a complex nonlinear interaction among lower-limb joint angles, trunk positioning, and propulsion-related variables, rather than a single kinematic factor.

Conclusion: This supports the established understanding that swimming turns are highly coordinated, multi-phase movements in which performance emerges from the interaction of interdependent components.

Author Biographies

  • Aysheh Ababaneh, Jadara University

    Assistant Professor, Faculty of Physical Education - Department of Physical Education, University of Jadara, Jordan

  • Mohammad Alzu’bi, jadara university

    Assistant Professor, Full-time lecturer, Faculty of physical Educational, Family Guidance and sport Department, Jadara University, Jordan

  • Hussam Albdaiwi, jadara university

    Assistant Professor, Faculty of Physical Education - Department of Physical Education, University of Jadara, Jordan

  • Ruba Kharashqah, jadara university

    Faculty of Physical Educational, Family Guidance and Sports Department, Jadara University, Jordan

  • Mohamed Salem, Alexandria University

    Department of Aquatic Sports, Faculty of Sports Sciences for Men, Alexandria University

  • Ibrahim AbuZaid, Alexandria University

    Department of Aquatic Sports, Faculty of Sports Sciences for Men, Alexandria University,

  • Osama Abukhaizaran, Prince Sultan University

    College of Humanities and Sciences, Preparatory Year Program, Health and Physical Education, Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia

  • Raghd Tarwneh, Prince Sultan University

    College of Humanities and Sciences, Department of General Studies , Health and Physical Education, Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia

  • Hassan Kulaep, alpha Company

    Full-time lecturer in physical education, Jordan, 

  • Nahed Ababneh, Jadara University

    Faculty of Physical Educational, Family Guidance and Sports Department, Jadara University, Jordan

  • Elsaied Salem, Alexandria University

    Department of Fitness, Gymnastics and Sports Show, Faculty of Sports Sciences for Men, Alexandria University,   Alexandria 21625, Egypt

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Published

02-02-2026

Issue

Vol. 75 (2026)

Section

Original Research Article

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Copyright (c) 2025 Aysheh Ababaneh, Mohammad Alzu’bi, Hussam Albdaiwi, Ruba Kharashqah, Mohamed Salem, Ibrahim AbuZaid, Osama Abukhaizaran, Raghd Tarwneh, Hassan Kulaep, Nahed Ababneh, Elsaied Salem

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How to Cite

Ababaneh, A., Alzu’bi, M., Albdaiwi, H., Kharashqah, R., Salem, M., AbuZaid, I., Abukhaizaran, O., Tarwneh, R., Kulaep, H., Ababneh, N., & Salem, E. (2026). Kinematic variables influencing somersault turn time in medley swimmers using artificial neural networks (ANN). Retos, 75, 917-928. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v75.118466