Is it possible to compete with a nose clip on?
Due to some sinus problems (so the doc thinks) I need to swim with a nose clip which is ok if I swim just for me, but a couple weeks ago our coach mentioned something about a some competition in the summer...... I feel so stupid wearing this thing on my nose..... Am I the only one? If there a better way to fix my sinus problem? Can it be related to the pool water or am I just making it up? :frustrated:
IIt surely has nothing to do with speed or technique. It has everything to do with speed and maybe a little to do with reducing sinus infections.
It has been demonstrated at the elite level, the underwater breakout is the faster than surface backstroke. Also the underwater backstroke breakout requires the swimmer to 1) have a constant exaltation through the nose, 2) allow copious amounts of water to flow into their nasal cavity, or 3) block the flow of inrushing water.
Typically swimmers who choose option 1 have subsequently shorter breakouts as the race progresses; the need for air drives them to the surface and the exaltation reduces stored air volume and buoyancy. Option 2 often leads to coughing and spewing. Option 3 (nose clips) is the most effective option and not sneezing afterwards is an added bonus.
When I race backstroke with a nose clip, I usually add 4 to 5 yards to each breakout over non-clipped races.
IIt surely has nothing to do with speed or technique. It has everything to do with speed and maybe a little to do with reducing sinus infections.
It has been demonstrated at the elite level, the underwater breakout is the faster than surface backstroke. Also the underwater backstroke breakout requires the swimmer to 1) have a constant exaltation through the nose, 2) allow copious amounts of water to flow into their nasal cavity, or 3) block the flow of inrushing water.
Typically swimmers who choose option 1 have subsequently shorter breakouts as the race progresses; the need for air drives them to the surface and the exaltation reduces stored air volume and buoyancy. Option 2 often leads to coughing and spewing. Option 3 (nose clips) is the most effective option and not sneezing afterwards is an added bonus.
When I race backstroke with a nose clip, I usually add 4 to 5 yards to each breakout over non-clipped races.
