Abstract des Autors

The effects of three types of clothing, typically worn in the swim leg of triathlon competitions, on swim time and selected physiological and psycho-physiological assessments were evaluated in three water temperatures. Thirteen trained male triathletes attempted nine all-out 1500 metre swims in cool (17.0 degrees C), mild (21.3 degrees C) and warm (29.5 degrees C) water wearing a swimsuit (SS), lycra suit (LS) and a wetsuit (WS) in each water condition. Rectal temperature (Tre), chest temperature (Tch), axillary temperature (Tax) and heart rate (HR) were measured prior to, during and after each swim. Swim time was determined at the completion of each swim and perceived comfort rating (PCR) was recorded at the completion of the swim and throughout recovery. Swim time was not affected by water temperature. However, at the higher water temperatures changes in Tre and HR were greater, while Tch and Tax were less than those observed at lower water temperatures. Swim times were 10% faster when wearing a WS than a LS or SS. Tre, Tch, HR and PCR were higher in the WS condition. There was no advantage in wearing the LS over the SS. The disadvantage of leaner and slower swimmers and the advantages of fatter swimmers in cold water are also discussed. It is recommended that the rules governing swim events consider foremost the safety of athletes. Verf.-Referat