THE FUTURE OF SWIM SPEED

With the science of speed in water far behind that on land, what does the future hold? Could a watery version of a wind tunnel add insight and will kit be more designed for the individual swimmer?

Professor Toussaint agrees there is more to come. “In my opinion, we have merely scratched the surface in understanding the complexity of drag and the potential for personalized suit tweaks to reduce it. Advancements such as 3D modelling of the body and bespoke suits that consider individual mass distribution hold promise,” he says. “Additionally, my research into propulsion suggests that suit design may either hinder or facilitate efficient propulsion, and we are actively exploring this area. The application of new materials that enable previously impossible designs is also an intriguing avenue for future research.”

It’s a view that Dean Jackson shares. “We think that the future is probably like we’ve had in cycling, where you’ve got ribs with another membrane stretched over the top, and then that membrane oscillates in the water. Also though, obviously we’re constrained by British Triathlon regulations about what you can and can’t do. But what if we opened up the 5mm rule a bit and went and had some fun? We’ve already done this to some extent with Norseman, who allow thicker neoprene.

“I think one of the biggest challenges, though, is going to be making sure that neoprene is made in a sustainable and healthy manner,” Jackson continues. “We don’t use oil-derived neoprene, they’ve had issues in the States with oil-derived neoprene causing cancers in the local facilities [see www.thebigsea.org for more on this huge topic – Ed]. So we’re using limestone-derived neoprene, but I would like to think that in the future, we’re going to have a natural, sustainable rubber”.