Why would swimming ban a faster swimsuit?
A race measures a swimmer, but the equipment also shapes the contest. In 2009, FINA announced new swimwear requirements for 2010, including textile construction and limits on suit shape. The interesting question is how a sport decides which improvements belong to the athlete and which should be restricted by equipment rules.
Questions you could explore
- How do reducing drag and increasing buoyancy differ?
- What could a comparison of race times before and after a rule change establish, and what else might have changed?
Start reading
- FINA / World AquaticsPR58 - FINA Bureau Meeting
Read the 2009 announcement of material, shape, buoyancy, and permeability requirements for 2010 competition swimwear.
Ready to try your ideas aloud?
Your topic carries over. Record up to 2½ minutes, depending on your plan.