Does being overweight affect swimming performances?

I'm 70 yrs old and started swimming last August. I'm swimming with an awesome Masters team. I've lost quite a bit of weight, still have 20lbs to go; I'm getting there but have two questions: 1: Am I pulling an extra 20lbs with each pull? At first it seems an obvious yes, but I wonder if being in water makes it different. 2: When the weight is off will it be easier for me to get and stay underwater? - I'm having a tough time pushing off the wall streamline underwater. odd questions I know, but I'd really appreciate it if anyone can tell me? Thanks, PamFirst, congratulations on your great progress so far! Yes, extra weight does inhibit your preformance but not as much as with some other exercises. It also increases your calorie burn. I have seen some very fast overweight swimmers. Technique and cardiovascular fitness are much more important than weight, it seems. At 70 years of wisdom, you are an inspiration to everyone!

I'm 70 yrs old and started swimming last August. I'm swimming with an awesome Masters team. I've lost quite a bit of weight, still have 20lbs to go; I'm getting there but have two questions: 1: Am I pulling an extra 20lbs with each pull? At first it seems an obvious yes, but I wonder if being in water makes it different. 2: When the weight is off will it be easier for me to get and stay underwater? - I'm having a tough time pushing off the wall streamline underwater. odd questions I know, but I'd really appreciate it if anyone can tell me? Thanks, PamFirst, congratulations on your great progress so far! Yes, extra weight does inhibit your preformance but not as much as with some other exercises. It also increases your calorie burn. I have seen some very fast overweight swimmers. Technique and cardiovascular fitness are much more important than weight, it seems. At 70 years of wisdom, you are an inspiration to everyone!