Impact of Aquathlon Training on Different Age Groups in Physical and Functional Fitness

eview question / Objective The study aims to implement a structured aquathlon training protocol, adjusting training loads and volumes according to the individual characteristics of participants and their respective age groups.The intervention will consist of individualized and group training sessions, including running, swimming, general strength, and mobility exercises.Pre-and post-intervention assessments will be conducted, allowing comparison of the same participants' performance in swimming and running, as well as recording changes in endurance, speed, strength, and functional capacity.The study intends to investigate the benefits of integrated practice across the different aquathlon disciplines, as well as to evaluate the applicability of the program in promoting physical activity and preventing conditions such as sedentary behavior, social exclusion, sarcopenia, and obesity.Additionally, it aims to develop specific guidelines for different age groups, enabling the future implementation of the protocol in swimming pools and sports complexes.Rationale Triathlon is a sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running, requiring high physical and mental capacities and promoting the development of endurance, strength, speed, and overall physical fitness.Since the first organized triathlon in California in 1974, the sport has shown significant growth worldwide.In Portugal, the first triathlon was held in 1984, in Peniche, marking the beginning of its national implementation.From the development of triathlon emerged aquathlon, a sport that combines only swimming and running, making it more accessible and practical, especially for younger populations and training contexts.Aquathlon later became an independent competitive sport, with world