A comparison of two groups of non-swimmers to determine learning differences with the use of biofeedback muscle relaxation training.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the difference in learning swimming between two groups of non-swimmers, one participating in electromyograph biofeedback muscle relaxation training and the other without muscle relaxation training. Method of Research: Thirty-four subjects who were classified non-swimmers and enrolled in elementary swimming classes were used to test the hypothesis. Each of the thirty-four subjects completed the American Red Cross beginning and elementary backstroke skills pre and post tests, plus the appropriate subjects completed eight weeks of biofeedback training in muscle relaxation. The performance scores from the swimming tests were utilized as the data. To determine statistical significance at the .05 level t-tests were used. Conclusions: (1) The two groups did not differ significantly in the learning of beginning swimming skills, but both groups did learn beginning swimming skills. (2) Subjects trained in electromyograph biofeedback muscle relaxation did display a slight difference in learning on the tests reqUiring skills on the back. (3) Number of subjects was too low to obtain significant differences in learning. (4) Experimental subjects' responses indicated that biofeedback training did facilitate their ability to relax.