Hi all, I remember reading a discussion here about what counted as a "lap" (one length versus a round trip), and there didn't seem to be a consensus. I'm interested to know the statistics. So please take the poll :)
I believe it has been demonstrated that, by the dictionary, the definition is ambiguous.
In my book, a lap is two lengths of the pool.
But, because of the confusion, I _never_ use the term. If someone asks me "How many laps is a 500 free?" I answer "It is 20 lengths of the pool."
This is also why, back when starters used to announce the event, they migrated to using lengths. "8 lengths of the pool, freestyle. . . Take your mark ..." Also why when announcing bell/gun lap format, the starter would say "The lead swimmer will receive a warning signal with two lengths and 5 yards remaining."
Note also we call it a "bell lap" event, not a "bell laps" event. If a lap were one length, then on a "bell lap" event, you'd get the warning bell with 30 yards or 55 meters remaining (i.e., 1 length + 5 yards/meters), not TWO lengths + 5 yards/meters.
-Rick
I believe it has been demonstrated that, by the dictionary, the definition is ambiguous.
In my book, a lap is two lengths of the pool.
But, because of the confusion, I _never_ use the term. If someone asks me "How many laps is a 500 free?" I answer "It is 20 lengths of the pool."
This is also why, back when starters used to announce the event, they migrated to using lengths. "8 lengths of the pool, freestyle. . . Take your mark ..." Also why when announcing bell/gun lap format, the starter would say "The lead swimmer will receive a warning signal with two lengths and 5 yards remaining."
Note also we call it a "bell lap" event, not a "bell laps" event. If a lap were one length, then on a "bell lap" event, you'd get the warning bell with 30 yards or 55 meters remaining (i.e., 1 length + 5 yards/meters), not TWO lengths + 5 yards/meters.
-Rick
