9781422286784

Though the LZR suit was outlawed, other companies, such as Jaked, make full-body suits that are legal to use in competition.

Athletes move through water. Swimmers have the unique task of moving not through air, but through a liquid. Technology is on the case here, too. In 2008, a new type of full-body swimming outfit was created using materials and computer design. The suits re- duced drag , or the friction of water over the body, more than 10 percent, which can be a lot at an elite level of competition. Together with world-class athletes, the LZR Racer suits literally changed the rule book—they were too good. “The thing that’s really hurt more

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