In the “Readers Ask” section on page 11 of the latest issue of USMS Swimmer (as shown on the home page of this site), there is a question about the use of paddles.
The reply (from Randy Nutt of the Boca and Gold Coast Masters) says something to the effect that “……..Paddles increase distance per stroke and enable the swimmer to achieve some very fast speeds in a work out”.
As I’ve said repeatedly, the main problem in swimming is how to get more propulsion –not reduce drag- and paddles and flippers provide the most drastic improvement in speed.
So here’s the $64,000 question: If FINA allows the use of so called tech suits which increase speed by purportedly reducing drag, why aren’t paddles and flippers (which increase speed through enhanced propulsion) also allowed? :confused:
Dolphin 2
I would be curious to see what various other technical improvements regarding drag reduction (swim cap anyone) have done over the years.
Take the introduction of the swim cap and goggles - how much did drag reduction (and increased visibility) help improve swim times at the elite level. Did the swim community at the time (1970's??) have similar objections to the use of these items in swim competitions? I wouldn't know as these items have always been around while I have been swimming.
In similar fashion, the newest generation of swimmers have always had some sort of tech suit (even first generation "fast-skins" and such) when they have been involved in the sport.
I would be curious to see what various other technical improvements regarding drag reduction (swim cap anyone) have done over the years.
Take the introduction of the swim cap and goggles - how much did drag reduction (and increased visibility) help improve swim times at the elite level. Did the swim community at the time (1970's??) have similar objections to the use of these items in swim competitions? I wouldn't know as these items have always been around while I have been swimming.
In similar fashion, the newest generation of swimmers have always had some sort of tech suit (even first generation "fast-skins" and such) when they have been involved in the sport.
