J. Swimming Research, Vol. 19:2 (2012) Stress-Related Breathing Problems: An Issue for Elite Swimmers Elsa Kristiansen, Frank E. Abrahamsen, & Trine Stensrud Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, a Specialized University PO Box 4014, Ullevaal 0806 Oslo, Norway Abstract The purpose of this preliminary study was to test if there are any links between breathing problems, and physiological and psychological recovery (or perceived lack thereof) in elite swimmers. In order to do so, twenty-four elite competitive swimmers (range 15-25 years, Mage = 18.25 years, SD = 1.60), from two swimming clubs in Norway both performed three physiological tests for bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and also completed a series of psychological questionnaires. The results are important for coaches, as it was revealed an alarmingly high prevalence of BHR. Possible links between physiological and psychological stress markers in athletes are explained by the use of Cognitive Activation Theory of Stress (CATS). Correlations revealed an association between one perfectionism factor (concern over mistakes) and the recovery scale (balance between training and recovery), practically meaning there might be a relationship between breathing problems and reduced recovery. However, a mastery climate may protect the swimmers against both perfectionism and burnout, helping their recovery in the long run. In conclusion, there is evidence that we need more research about this possible (breathing) stress-recovery imbalance in order to identify under recovery and avoid more severe negative consequences for elite swimmers. Introduction The numbers of swimmers diagnosed with breathing problems are presently rising. Coaches have therefore realized that this issue should be integrated in the planning of the swimmers training programs. A prevalence of exercise induced asthma (EIA) and bronchial hyper responsiveness (BHR) is elevated especially amongst elite endurance athletes, and, in addition, this problem has increased markedly over the last three decades (7, 8, 12, 23). For a coach this means that swimmers may be prone for trouble as well. In fact, swimmers may be particularly exposed for trouble, because the inhalation of chlorine is thought to be an airway provoking factor during training and competitions (3). Recently, coaches and swimmers have asked us whether breathing problems could be worse in more stressful periods. Many endurance sports require hard training regimes. Swimming is by no means an exception. Some argue that swimming is one of the most physically and mentally demanding of all sports, because it comprises of hard in-water and out-of-water training program (20). Thus, Treasure and his colleagues (20) point out that these athletes are part of a high-risk group for experiencing overtraining and burnout. Besides the hard training routine, many of the swimmers are students and have school requirements to meet, with their two passes a day usually accomplished before and after school. Then, the swimmers commit to their homework in the evenings. In other words, they have to adhere to a strict regime in order to