Read more for information regarding racing suits & hats.. something every competitive swimmer must think about.
It is commonly accepted to maximise a swimmers performance that they should wear a tight fitting costume. This may mean wearing a suit two or three sizes smaller than your actual size and this will not inhibit any movement of the limbs. In our sport the case of 'a tight fit is the right fit!'
This helps to reduce drag and increase streamlining which can make the differance between a feeling of personal satisfaction or extreme disappointment after their race. Baggy swimwear, drag shorts and older worn costumes are ideal for training but never for desirable competitive performances.
A trend among successful swimmers is to wear these for the warm-up at competitions only to then change into their racing suits afterwards. The contrast in the feeling is useful from a technical and psychological point of view but also as a motivational tool that they will feel superfast when racing. More experienced swimmers will change to another suit from heats to finals just to get another edge on their rivals.
Likewise, for the same reasons, wearing a silicone racing cap is benefical too. Hair attracts eddy currents behind the head that slow down forwards movement through the water. Also, wearing a club cap makes it easier to feel part of a great team and to be spotted by their coach prior to a race at competition. Females have found it helpful to tie their hair behind their head before putting on a cap so that the head is a little more streamlined. Furthermore, this also stops the dreaded cap falling off during a race. Boys will certainly always wear a cap to competition or opt for a very close crop cut.
As a competitive club we encourage swimmers to fulfil their potential by expecting swimmers to not only ply their competitive swimming skills when needed but to also prepare their competitive equipment as well!
So when you think about racing with your baggy costume, opt for what we recommend and leave you own little parachute you planned to wear in your training bag.
Home
