NCBI ROFL: Speedos: not just for streamlining your junk.

Discoblog
By ncbi rofl
Jul 20, 2010 4:00 AMNov 19, 2019 11:45 PM
swimming-300x227.jpg

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Proposal of alternative mechanism responsible for the function of high-speed swimsuits. "Since many top swimmers wearing Speedo LZR Racer swimsuits have broken world records, it is considered that the corset-like grip of suit supports the swimmers to maintain flexibility of movement and reducing water resistance. We propose an alternative mechanism to explain this phenomenon. The suits are so tight that the blood circulation of swimmers is suppressed.This effect accelerates the anaerobic glycolysis system but rather suppresses the aerobic mitochondrial respiration system. Because of the prompt production of ATP in the glycolysis system, the swimmers, especially in short distance competitions, obtain instantaneous force in white fibers of the skeletal muscles."

Photo: flickr/marcopako 

Related content: Discoblog: NCBI ROFL: Impact of wet underwear on thermoregulatory responses and thermal comfort in the cold.

Discoblog: NCBI ROFL: Distinguishing between new and slightly worn underwear: a case study.

Discoblog: NCBI ROFL: Oh, snap! You got burned!

WTF is NCBI ROFL? Read our FAQ

!

1 free article left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

1 free articleSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group