sports science, research, training and performance
Drafting effects in swimming
We've uncovered some interesting analysis from Portugal relating to drafting effects in swimming. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of drafting distance on the drag coefficient in swimming.
Researchers found:
* The drag coefficient of the leading swimmer decreased as the flow velocity increased.
* The relative drag coefficient of the back swimmer was lowest (about 56% of the leading swimmer) for the smallest inter-swimmer distance (0.5 m).
* The drag coefficient values of both swimmers in drafting were equal to distances ranging between 6.45 m and 8.90 m, considering the different flow velocities.
* Numerical simulation techniques could be a good approach to enable the analysis of the fluid forces around objects in water, as it happens in swimming.
Conclusions
Using these findings, the researchers concluded that it is possible for swimmers to achieve the same hydrodynamic conditions during open water competitions as training in the pool.
For more information, see the full research study
Researchers found:
* The drag coefficient of the leading swimmer decreased as the flow velocity increased.
* The relative drag coefficient of the back swimmer was lowest (about 56% of the leading swimmer) for the smallest inter-swimmer distance (0.5 m).
* The drag coefficient values of both swimmers in drafting were equal to distances ranging between 6.45 m and 8.90 m, considering the different flow velocities.
* Numerical simulation techniques could be a good approach to enable the analysis of the fluid forces around objects in water, as it happens in swimming.
Conclusions
Using these findings, the researchers concluded that it is possible for swimmers to achieve the same hydrodynamic conditions during open water competitions as training in the pool.
For more information, see the full research study
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Comment by Triwill on May 4, 2008 at 7:14pm -
Once you have achieved the base level of fitness. It appears that Drafting in the Swim discipline of Triathlon is paramount. Have to get my colleagues from the Tri club to go swimming as a collective. To assist with the start en masse.
Will - ATC
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Comment by Dr Tamsin Lewis on June 16, 2009 at 4:16pm -
Its a tough one this - I next manage to get anyone the right pace to draft .. and usually as soon as I get close to drafting the swimmer ahead doesnt like it, kicks extra hard or swims out of your path. It does make a huge difference - but you have to get someone who isnt too fast and isnt too slow... and um ... nice..
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