Abstract
In this article we present a specific population of swimmers aged over 60 years competing in Masters swimming. Our goal was to describe the performance and preparation of the Czech swimmers for the top competition level and assess the quality of their life relative to the general population.
Other goal was to compare the quality of life between foreign and Czech swimmers. The study group consisted of 13 women, Czech swimmers (n = 5; age 71 +- 7.3 years; body mass 67.6 +- 7.8 kg; body height 166.8 +- 5.7 cm; body mass index 24.8 +- 2.5 kg.m-2) and foreign swimmers from the USA and Canada (n = 8; age 67.6 +- 8.4 years; body weight of 65 +- 7.6 kg; body výška164 +- 7.2 cm; body mass index 24.1 +- 1.9 kg.m-2).
Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was assessed using a standardized questionnaire "36 - item Short - Form Health Survey" (SF-36). Qualitative analysis of sports training was conducted through a survey and controlled interview.
Czech swimmers reached in comparison to common Czech population significantly higher scores in all measured dimensions. In Czech swimmers occurred bodily pain more frequently than in foreign swimmers.
Foreign swimmers also reported a higher degree of vigor and energy than Czech swimmers. The difference in overall quality of life between Czech and foreign swimmers was not significant.