Science Proves that Technique Is the Most Important Factor in Fast Swimming

FASTER by Jim GourleyThe book FASTER: Demystifying the Science of Triathlon Speed by scientist and triathlete Jim Gourley confirms a fact we already know: technique is the most important part of fast swimming.

But just how important is it?

Swimming efficiency is calculated like this:

Efficiency = Drag Force / (Swim Force + Stroke Drag)

Here’s the efficiency at maximum speed of three “species”:

  • Fish: 80%
  • Competitive Swimmers: 73%
  • Triathletes: 44%

Sooo…technique is incredibly important.

Sheila Taormina’s Swim Speed Series reveals the swimming technique used by the world’s faster swimmers.