Performance level differences in swimming: a meta-analysis of passive drag force.

The streamline is a basic position for competitive swimming starts and turns and has been used in many studies on resistiveforces. However, there is a wide variety of theoretical interpretations in these studies, leading to diverse and questionable conclusions. The purpose of this study was to determine performance level differences in the streamline position using a meta-analysis. Faster swimmers had a significantly lower coefficient of drag (Cd) than slower swimmers, (M = .57, z = 4.30, p < . 001, SE = .13, 95 % CI = .32-.82) and, therefore, a more effective streamline position. The results support considering all the related variables in a study ofpassive drag and using the Cd to discriminate between performance levels in swimming.