Sex- and qualification-dependent differences in heart rate and blood pressure among swimmers

Abstract

Aim: To comparatively analyze heart rate and blood pressure in swimmers of varying skill levels and genders, utilizing contemporary scientific data alongside our own observations. Materials and Methods: A total of 411 swimmers (270 men, 141 women) competing in 100–200 m distances were examined at the beginning of the preparatory training phase. Participants were divided into three groups: beginners, intermediate level, and high-class athletes. Blood pressure was measured using the Korotkoff method with an aneroid sphygmomanometer, and heart rate was recorded by auscultation after 5 minutes of rest. Results: High-class athletes had lower HR and higher systolic BP compared to beginners. Male swimmers exhibited lower HR and higher BP than females, with significant sex differences in systolic BP across all qualification levels. Findings highlight the influence of sports proficiency and sex on cardiovascular parameters in swimmers. Conclusions: Male swimmers exhibited bradycardia and hypertension more frequently, while female swimmers had higher rates of tachycardia and hypotension. Higher sports qualification in males was associated with lower heart rates and increased blood pressure, whereas female swimmers showed no HR differences across levels but had higher BP at advanced levels. Gender differences were most pronounced in high and intermediate level qualification groups, with males showing lower HR and higher BP than females.