BACKGROUND: Swimming has a lower efficiency compared to other sport. Swimming technique is essential to minimize drag and maximize speed. Hence, kinematic analysis is fundamental for optimizing technique and performance. In training routines, passive training equipment is frequently used. However, their kinematics alterations remain poorly explorated. This creates a gap between the training stimulus prescribed by the coach and the actual effect achieved by the swimmer. METHODS: 10 participants performed three 25 m trials at 80%, 90%, and 100% of their maximal swimming velocity with and without passive equipment. Main kinematic variables were compared across equipment conditions and intensities though 3D MoCap. RESULTS: swimming with passive equipment primarily affects technique at maximal intensities. Specifically, technical stability was observed at 80% and 90% of vmax, with the exception of the knee joint angle in arm-only conditions; however, at higher intensities, paddles modified the underwater hand trajectory. Additionally, in the arm-only condition, the timing of pelvic motion was altered. CONCLUSIONS: Kinematics remain largely stable when using passive training equipment at low intensities, with the exception of knee joint angle in leg-constrained conditions. At maximal intensities, the use of paddles modifies hand trajectory, whereas leg-constrained tools affect both knee joint angle and pelvic roll in the arm-only condition. When comparing the same equipment across different intensities, adaptations appear to be intensity-specific. These findings suggest that the use of passive swimming equipment in training programs should be carefully tailored to the intended objectives, taking into account the specific technical adaptations they induce.
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