Synergistic Impact of Probiotic and Omega-3 Supplementation Combined with Ultra-Short Race Pace Training on Sprint Swimming Performance

Introduction

Swimming, particularly sprint disciplines, demands exceptional anaerobic power, neuromuscular responsiveness, and efficient recovery to maximize competitive performance. Beyond rigorous training, nutritional strategies that modulate systemic inflammation, immune function, and nutrient absorption have emerged as promising adjuncts to enhance athletic adaptation. Probiotic supplementation, through beneficial modulation of gut microbiota, supports intestinal barrier integrity and immune defenses, potentially mitigating exercise-induced stress. Concurrently, omega-3 fatty acids, notably EPA and DHA, exert anti-inflammatory actions and favor muscle protein synthesis pathways, contributing to improved recovery and muscle function. Ultra-short race pace training (USRPT) represents a targeted high-intensity interval approach that mimics competitive sprint swimming demands by subdividing race distances into brief, maximal-effort repetitions, promoting physiological adaptations specific to sprint performance execution.

This article synthesizes recent evidence assessing the combined effects of probiotics and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation alongside USRPT on sprint swimming performance. We highlight physiological mechanisms, study design, key outcomes, and clinical implications for optimizing swimmer training and nutrition.