Effects of Real-Time Visual Feedback on Performance and Motivation in Recreational Swimmers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Eisenhardt D, Kits A, Madeleine P, Samani A, Clarke DC, Kristiansen M. · Medicine and science in sports and exercise · 2026
Introduction: Real-time feedback technologies are increasingly used in endurance training. We previously showed that feedback increased compliance to prescribed training by fitness swimmers, yet their effects on long-term performance adaptations and motivation remain unclear. This randomized controlled trial investigated the extent to which real-time visual feedback during swim training improves performance and motivation among recreational swimmers.
Methods: Fifty-seven participants were randomized into a feedback (FB) or non-feedback (NFB) group and were prescribed 35 workouts over 12 weeks across three training volumes (small, medium, large). The FB group used FORM Goggles to receive real-time visual feedback, whereas the NFB group completed identical workouts without feedback. Performance was assessed as the change in critical swim speed (CSS) from baseline to post-intervention, and motivation was evaluated using post-workout Likert-scale surveys assessing accomplishment, enjoyment, and intention to continue training.
Results: Linear mixed-effects models revealed significant improvements in CSS over time (p 0.16).
Conclusions: Real-time visual feedback did not lead to greater improvements in CSS or motivation compared with non-feedback training during a 12-week structured swim training program. These
Findings: suggest that, under the conditions tested, prescribed training volume and intensity were the primary drivers of adaptation, with no additional measurable benefit from real-time visual feedback.