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Related Experiment Videos

Do wet suits affect swimming speed?

L Parsons, S J Day

    British Journal of Sports Medicine
    |September 1, 1986
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Wet suits significantly increase swimming speed in triathletes, with swimmers covering an average of 1.7 more lengths per 30-minute session. These findings support the need for international regulations on wet suit use in competitive swimming.

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    Area of Science:

    • Sports Science
    • Human Physiology
    • Biomechanics

    Background:

    • The use of wet suits in endurance sports like Triathlon is a contentious issue.
    • Debate exists regarding their impact on athletic performance, specifically swimming speed.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the effect of wet suits on swimming speed in a controlled trial.
    • To provide empirical data to inform the debate on wet suit usage in Triathlon.

    Main Methods:

    • A randomized cross-over trial design was employed.
    • Sixteen swimmers participated, completing two 30-minute swim sessions.
    • Each swimmer completed one session with a wet suit and one without.

    Main Results:

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Swimmers with wet suits covered an average of 24.9 lengths (66m pool).
  • Swimmers without wet suits covered an average of 23.2 lengths.
  • The difference in lengths was statistically significant (0.8 to 2.6 lengths, p < 0.001).

    • Conclusions:

    • Wet suits demonstrably enhance swimming speed in Triathlon.
    • International regulations are recommended to ensure fair competition.
    • Consideration of health and safety aspects in sport is crucial.