There are three types of resistance that affect swimming function, namely frontal resistance, skin friction, and eddy resistance.

Frontal resistance occurs when the swimmer adopts a body position that exposes a greater than necessary body surface to the water, thus increasing the effect of the water’s resistance force. To limit the effect of frontal resistance, swimmers may seek to position themselves as high on the water surface as possible, to produce an effect similar to that of a hydrofoil. This technique is sometimes useful for swimmers with a smaller body mass. Alternatively, the swimmers will roll their body from side to side as the swim strokes are executed; the turning movement keep the body higher in the water.

Swimming research has established that for a freestyle swimmer, a body position of between 30% and 40% angle in the water allows the swimmer to generate optimum speed.

Swimmers keep their head as close to the surface of the water while breathing to counter act the natural tendency of the lower part of the body to sink, producing greater swim resistance, when the swimmer raises their head to breath.

Skin friction is the type of drag created when the swimmer’s body and swim suit pass through water. The most time honored technique to counter skin friction is the shaving of the swimmer’s body hair on any places that have contact with the water. The shaving of body hair may have a slight impact on the hydrodynamic characteristics of the swimmer’s body. A similar physical result is achieved through the design of the racing suits that mimic the characteristics of shark skin. The suit surface is constructed with a series of ridges that tend to reduce the drag created when a suit passes through water, as the ridges act to deflect water away from the surface of the suit.

The full body racing suit is also designed to preserve the symmetry and sleekness of the body as it moves through the water, by limiting the amount of movement in the swimmers muscles that is not required for propulsion. The suits maintain a constant body silhouette without affecting muscle function.

Eddy resistance is caused when a swimmer creates eddies and water turbulence through poor stroke technique. Whenever a swimmer executes a front crawl stroke, an eddy, shaped as a vortex or whirlpool, forms at the water surface. If the stroke is executed inefficiently, the vortex will remain. If the vortexes accumulate around the body of the swimmer, the water resistance is increased.

Original Post on faqs.org

Matt Fitzgerald of Triathlete Magazine writes,

After all, lack of knowledge clearly is not the factor that’s holding you back. You’re already familiar with the various elements of proper freestyle technique: floating high in the water, rotating from the hips, pulling with a “big paddle” and the rest. You have a very clear mental vision of what your body should do.

During workouts, your brain commands your arms and legs to move just like Michael Phelps’s limbs do when he swims freestyle, but the muscles do not (or cannot) obey. If only you could get rid of your body and swim in your mind with the perfect technique you picture and intend there.

You can read the entire article on Triathlete Magazine’s website.

If you like the idea of swimming visualization and want to learn all there possibly is to know, then head on over to the website of Paul Newsome, the owner of an Australian swim coaching company. Paul and his team have developed an animated swimmer, named Mr Smooth, that is out of this world! He’s a virtual swimmer that can be viewed on the website or downloaded as an application. You’re able to control the speed at which Mr Smooth swims and view him swimming with or without water. It’s quite mesmerizing to watch actually and really does have a corrective effect on your stroke when viewed just before hopping in the pool. The download is free and the website is a goldmine of information on swimming visualization. Check out www.SwimSmooth.com to meet Mr Smooth.

Swimming provides unparalleled cardiovascular conditioning, provided you practice consistently and with good technique. While other forms of exercise may be more effective at elite levels (such as running or cycling), incorporating swimming into a cross-training routine and pushing yourself in practice will result in overall improved fitness.

2. Balance your build
Swimming builds longer, leaner muscles that complement the shorter denser muscles that develop from weight training. These “swimmer’s” muscles also help boost metabolism to keep calories burning longer.

3. Cross-training
Swimming not only boosts cardiovascular capacity while increasing muscle strength, but it also gives your body a break from higher-impact activities like basketball, running, and weightlifting. By creating a balanced workout routine, athletes avoid injury by allowing their body time to heal, while not forgoing daily training sessions.

4. Increased flexibility
A heated pool relaxes muscles, increasing flexibility and enabling important stretching. Also, after intense lactic-acid-building endurance workouts (running, cycling, weights), an easy swim helps flush out toxins preventing muscle tightness and soreness the following day.

5. Strengthen your core
Swimming develops core body strength because it utilizes all the body’s muscles simultaneously. Although 70% of a swimmer’s effort comes from the upper body, kickboard and fin workouts can provide an excellent leg workout.

6. Endurance
Swimmers are able to swim longer than they can sustain other activities. With the right technique, a swimmer will be able to train for longer periods of time than if he/she were running and as a result, more calories are burned.

7. Adventure
Swimming has branched out from the darkened, indoor community pools of yesteryear. Many new health club chains offer clean lap pools, and local communities are finding renewed interest in outdoor facilities during the summer months. Seek out available natatoriums in your area (www.swimmersguide.com) and if you are able, locate a natural body of water (lake, ocean, pond, or quarry) and explore the joys of open-water swimming.

8. Social outlet
Imagine meeting the man/woman of your dreams, and seeing what they look like without their clothes on for your first date! That’s one benefit, at least, of joining a masters team or triathlon training group. In addition to the possibility of romance fueled by mutual interests, team programs offer peer motivation and professional coaching to provide you with increased performance results.

9. Weight loss
“People who consistently swim strenuously enough to be out of breath when they finish, and elevate their heart rate, do burn calories and lose weight,” says Jane Moore, M.D., a physician and active swimmer from Tacoma, Wash. “The key is to push yourself a bit.”

Originally posted on Active.com

Swim Tether announced today that it expects to see an increase in consumer spending on swimming pool related recreation products this summer as people stay closer to home and spend more time with their families.

San Luis Obispo, Ca (SWIM TETHER) April 23, 2010 — Swim Tether announced today that it expects to see an increase in consumer spending on swimming pool related recreation products this summer as people stay closer to home and spend more time with their families. A slowed economy and rising gas prices are sure to deter many a weekend warrior from heading out into the summer heat. If you have a pool and want to stay cool while getting a little exercise in the comfort of your own home, the Swim Tether might be your answer.

Swim Tether is the manufacturer of a high quality swimming pool accessory designed to enable homeowners to swim “laps” in pools as small as 14ft in length. This is achieved by installing a stainless steel receptacle at the edge of the pool into which a three part, flexible rod is inserted. The swimmer is then “tethered” to the pole with a nylon cord and neoprene waist belt. By effectively tethering the user to the pool side, the swimmer can swim freely in place for as long as they wish.

About Swim Tether:
For the past several years Swim Tether has been manufacturing quality products in the United States. Their tether units are backed by a lifetime guarantee against manufacturers defect during normal swimming use. First used solely for in-ground pools, demand has risen for alternate applications such as swim spas, swim platform installation on private yachts, and above ground pools.

For more information about Swim Tether or their products, visit their website at www.swimtether.com or call 877-4-TETHER (877-483-8437).

Media Contact:
Brent A.
brent@swimtether.com
www.swimtether.com

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Wooden decks adjacent swimming pools are notorious for being slippery. With children getting in and out constantly, the pool deck can quickly become an ice skating rink. If the deck is also cluttered with multiple rafts, noodles, beach balls, ducks and float rings, the chance of slipping on the deck increases.

Many people choose to throw their toys over the side of the pool into the yard. The toys may be out of the way, but when the kids use them again, they bring grass and dirt back into the pool. An alternative to throwing the toys overboard is to somehow neatly store them near the swimming area.

If your deck is large, and you don’t mind giving up deck space, products are available both locally and online. The bench seat with storage underneath and separate container products both allow for storage of smaller toys and accessories such as goggles and fins. Both of these storage

The problem is where to put the toys, and keep them within reach, while people are swimming.

Kathleen Pike, the creator of Pool-Pockets, said “Dragging toys up from underneath the deck several times a day just wasn’t working.” The solution was to find a product that hung over the outside railing of the deck. Pike said she searched on the internet for available products but only found storage bins that take up precious deck space. That’s when the idea began to create her own design.

“Since our pool deck is a main summer entertainment area, I wanted to create a storage system that complemented the nautical look of the deck” Pike said. Used fishing nets and natural hemp roping were selected as suitable materials. Pike then created a design by weaving used nets together and accenting them with shells and starfish.

After receiving many favorable comments on the Pool-Pockets, Pike was encouraged to further develop her product for sale. Many prototype pockets were created to perfect the weaving technique to make the pockets hang straight. The rope used to weave the pockets added another element of design. “Natural hemp rope must be whipped at the ends or the rope will fray” Pike said. “The new pockets are strong, attractive and provide a way to easily store pool toys out of the way” she said.

Pike currently sells three sizes of Pool-Pockets on the internet. Her original design was 4 ft. x 4 ft. to accommodate several pool rafts and noodles. Pike then added a 4 ft. x 8 ft. design for families with many pool toys to keep organized. One thing Pike noticed last year was small toys, such as snorkels and masks, collected at the bottom of the deep pockets making retrieval difficult. She has since designed a smaller, 2 ft x 2 ft pocket for small toys and accessories.

For additional information about Pool-Pockets, including photos and ordering information, you can visit Pike’s website at www.pool-pockets.com.

by: Gregory Fort

There are three kinds of filters that you can pick out from which include; sand, earth, and cartridge. In order to pick out the proper one you must study them carefully and get the one that is produced specifically for the type of pool filtration system you have.

When you have picked out the kind of filter you want you have to find one that is the right size. You will find out that they are offered in a variety of sizes and even shapes. You will recognize which filter to select by fitting it with the filtration system that you own. Otherwise it will not work and it will be worthless to you.

Now that you have the precise pool filter you are ready to install it. When in doubt we feel that it is best to not only utilize our help – but also the aid of the instruction manual that is provided to you. The first thing it should tell you to do is to put the filter on the equipment pad.

You must hook up the circulation plumbing to the intended filter. The more average filters will be designed with an influent and effluent line. The influent will take the water into the filter while the effluent will carry it back out. Make sure that the gate valve is attached to both of them and that you have cleansed off the O-rings and greased them.

Once everything is connected you will be able to turn the pool filter on and discover if it is working right. If it is not attached properly or is not working you will know within a day or two when your pool will start to appear terrible and will be extremely filthy.

Swimming Pool Filters are important when it comes to keeping your pool clean. Learn how you can Back Wash your Cartridge Swimming Pool Filter.

by Naomi West

1) Don’t just take the plunge, especially if the water is cold. Your body has to adjust to the water temperature gradually. If the water is cold… below 65 degrees Fahrenheit, you should wear a wet suit. A swim cap and earplugs help to keep your head warm. Ear plugs also guard against earache and infections. Ease yourself into the cold water and start with a session of around 15 minutes the first time. You can then gradually increase your time in the water with each swim.

2) Upon leaving the cold water after your swim, take your wet suit off, wrap yourself in a towel, have a warm drink and dress warmly. Your body temperature drops quicker in water and you need to get warm again.

3) For safety purposes, never swim alone. Always take a “swimming buddy” or join a swim club and swim together in a group. In the open water, potentially dangerous situations can arise. There are unknown elements such as currents, boats, seaweed and fog which you may have to negotiate. If you have a buddy or group, there is someone to help you if you get into difficulty.

4) On hot sunny days, especially if you have fair skin, apply waterproof sunscreen at least 20 minutes before your swim. Your skin can burn quite badly in the water if you don’t take the necessary precautions.

5) If you wear spectacles, consider prescription swimming goggles or daily disposable contact lenses with non-prescription goggles over them . In the open water, it is important to see where you’re going and to look out for any boats.

6) Swimming goggles come in various tints. Use blue lenses for cloudy days and dark lenses for bright, sunny days.

7) Beware of fog. It’s easy to lose sight of the shore and get lost in dense fog.

If a lightning storm is brewing, don’t swim. This is one electrifying experience you want to avoid!

9) Chaffing can be a problem, especially in salt water. Rub petroleum jelly over areas of friction if you are prone to chaffing.

10) Be careful of becoming entangled in seaweed when swimming in the ocean. Try not to kick when in seaweed as it tends to wrap around your legs. Also try to stay high in the water.

By following these practical tips, you can ensure that your open water swim is both an enjoyable and safe experience. Swimming is a great way to keep in shape. Get into the water and have some fun! Just remember the old adage “if in doubt, get out.”

by: Gregory De Villiers

There will be different needs depending on the type of pool you own, so this list is general. Refer to your pool and pump instructions for additional information.

Liquid or powdered Shock

Chlorine powder or tablets

Bromine

pH increase or pH decrease

Sanitizing cartridge for cartridge filters

A test kit or bottle of test strips to test pH and chlorine levels

Before you run off to your local pool supply store for chemicals, now would be the time to check all of your hoses, clamps, skimmer baskets, gaskets and o-rings. If any of the parts look like they need replacing, take them with you to the pool supply store. It’s a lot easier to match replacement parts if you have the old part with you.

Now that you have the easy part finished, it’s time to get to work. The first thing required is to get the cover off. Enlist some help for this, as you want to avoid getting any top water into the pool water. If you have an above ground pool, siphon the water off with a hose. If you have an in-ground pool you will need to use a sump pump to remove the top water.

To get a good siphon started, hook up the hose to the spigot and put the other end of the hose into the top water. Turn the hose on for a minute or so to fill it. Next crimp the hose a foot or two away from the faucet, and with your other hand, disconnect the hose from the spigot. Position the hose at a downspout drain to discharge then let go of the crimp. The water will reverse and start to drain.

Once you have the water cleared, use a leaf rake to remove as many leaves and twigs as possible. Next, remove your cover weights or springs. At this time a few people positioned around the pool will help to keep the cover out of the water. Try to fold your cover like a blanket keeping the crud in the middle then remove the cover. You need to scrub the cover thoroughly and properly dry for summer storage.

Now it’s time to attach all the pump hoses. Remember to lube plugs, fittings, valves and o-rings with petroleum jelly. Also be sure to remove any freeze plugs that were used to cover the hose openings. You will most likely need to add water to the pool. It should be filled to the skimmer half way point.

At this point you should start re-circulating the water and check for any leaks around the pump and hoses. Once your pool is leak and drip free, skim off as much floating debris as you can with your skimmer net. Open all your valves to flood the hoses and prime the pool pump. Most manufacturers recommend constantly recirculating the pool water for at least three days. Any crud and debris on the sides and bottom of the pool will need to be scrubbed off. Use the broom attachment of your pool vacuum for this.

After all debris has been removed and the pool has been scrubbed, check your filter for cleaning. Some pumps have removable filters; others are back-flushed, so clean as directed. Once the filter is cleaned, you can now super shock the water as per your manufacturer’s instructions. If you start with green water, you will need a lot more shock. It may take a few days of recirculation to clear the water. Once the water has cleared, test your water or take a sample to your pool supply store and have it analyzed. Adjust the water as required and keep recirculating. All that is left to do now is to wait for the water to warm up so you can start enjoying your pool.

by: Gregory Fort

Gregory Fort is a partner with the company Pool-Pockets – Your pool toy storage solution. http://www.pool-pockets.com

In the increasingly conscious beauty world, the importance of incorporating sunscreen is well documented. However, even if women make it a point to use sunscreens religiously, not all of them know how to apply them efficiently. Ineffective application have ineffective results.

Here are some tips for using your sunscreen products and making sure they serve you well.

When to Apply Sunscreens

To extract the maximum or even optimal benefits from your sunscreen, you need to know when exactly to apply it. Just dabbing it on your face and walking out in the sun right away is as good as not doing anything at all. There is a specific time and method of to apply sunscreens.

• Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before you venture out in the sun. This gives it enough time to be absorbed by the skin. When it is well absorbed, it is less likely to wash off from sweat and face washing.

• Even if you apply sunscreen at the start of the day, reapply it after strenuous physical activities like exercises and swimming. As you perspire or stay in the water, sunscreen is washed off and needs to be applied again in order to continue to protect the skin. For frequent reapplication, it is best to use a powdered sunscreen like iS Clinical SPF 20 Powder Sunscreen. These powder sunscreens are easy to apply and make the process much easier.

• Even if you do not perform any exhausting activities through the day, make sure you reapply it at least twice. This becomes especially important if you work outdoors or venture out in the peak sunlight hours (10 to 4 PM).

• Use sunscreen in all weather. Don’t avoid sunscreen use in winter. This is because even if the sunlight is not as harsh as in summer, it is still potent with harmful UVA and UVB radiations which your skin is vulnerable to.

How to Apply Sunscreens

Here are a few easy tips:

• Shake the sunscreen container well before use. This mixes all the particles of the lotion that might have settled in the bottom of the bottle. Of course, this won’t be necessary in sunscreen creams. But in case of sunscreen sprays, this process is very essential.

• Don’t apply sunscreens sparingly. Rather, take out a liberal about and slather it all over your body, especially so on your face, neck, hands and feet. Don’t be afraid to apply a thick layer of sunscreen in order to get maximum protection.

• Often people forget to apply sunscreen on certain exposed body parts like ears, back, shoulders and the back of hands and knees. But these parts of the body are as susceptible to sun damage as the others. Therefore, make sure to apply sunscreen on all areas of your body. For areas that are hard to reach by yourself like your back, ask a friend to help you out.

• Be careful while applying sunscreen around your eyes. Eye contours are very gentle and fragile and therefore can react to any harsh substances. Apply only a thin layer of sunscreen there.

• Reapply sunscreen after every 2 to 4 hours. Even if the label says ‘waterproof’ or ‘water-resistant’ make sure you reapply it after swimming or sweating. This is because such water-resistant or waterproof sunscreens offer only 40 to 80 minutes of protection against contact with water or sweat, after which it simply wears off.

by: Marilynnn Syrett

Here are some things to keep in mind if you are beginning your taper or rest period before your race.

1. Do longer warmups and warmdowns. You can keep your distance up, but start to add more to the beginning and end portion of your workout. This ‘active rest’ will assure that you are well rested for your race but not out of shape.

2. Avoid big meals and sugar. Tapering is an adjustment for your body, and your immune system may not be as strong during this time. Big meals and carbohydrates like sugar will wear your immune system and leave you susceptible to colds and flus. Keep in mind that as your workout intensity decreases, you must decrease calorie intake accordingly.

3. Get as much sleep as you can before midnight. Ideally, get to bed by 10:30. The sleep you get before midnight is the most crucial to your recovery. You will feel more rested if you can do this for at least 2 weeks before your event.

4. Lay off the strength training. This is more of an individual call (some people feel better if they are doing some strength work all the way up until the event, others will be too broken down unless they take a good 2 weeks off), but at the minimum, you should go lighter in the weeks leading up to your event.

5. Avoid caffeine. It may be tough if you are a coffee addict, but 2 weeks of not having that morning cup will give you more natural energy for your race. Take it from 6-time Ironman champion Mark Allen- he practiced this for every race and it worked pretty well for him!

6. Increase your meditation or yoga. Less time working out means more time to prepare mentally! If you don’t do yoga already, don’t start now. However, find some quiet time during the day to get away from work and working out to clear your mind. Think about how easy that swim will be since you are well-prepared with Tri Swim Coach!

7. You will have more energy during your rest or taper period. Don’t be tempted to use it! Save it for your event and you will be glad you did.

Have a great race!

by: Kevin Koskella