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Products and accessories associated with swimming, as a sport or recreational activity, are the focus of topics in this category.

As a recreational activity, swimming is a popular activity in which certain techniques are deployed to move through water. It involves repeated motions, known as strokes, to propel the body forward. Although some swimmers may swim nude or while wearing regular attire, swimmers generally wear specialized swimwear.

As a sport, swimming is an individual or team racing sport that requires the use of the entire body to move through the water. Competitive swimming is one of the most popular Olympic sports, with varied distance events in butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, freestyle, and individual medley, as well as freestyle or medley relays.

For recreational swimmers, the most common accessory is a comfortable and well-fitting swimsuit. Modern swimsuits are designed with advanced materials and technologies to reduce drag and provide buoyancy, although designs are available for people with varied needs and preferences, including modesty. These may include swim trunks, bikinis, and one-piece swimsuits.

Competitive swimmers, on the other hand, require high-performance suits that allow for speed and efficiency. These suits often feature compression panels, strategically placed fabric reinforcements, and advanced materials like Lycra and polyester. The Speedo LZR Racer, for example, was designed for competitive swimmers.

In addition to swimsuits, goggles protect the eyes from chlorine and other chemicals, reduce glare, and allow for a clear view underwater. They come in various styles, including training goggles, racing goggles, and open-water goggles. Custom-fit goggles offer personalized comfort and performance.

Swim caps help reduce drag, keep hair out of the face, and protect hair from chlorine damage. Some caps even provide built-in ear protection and anti-fog coatings.

For competitive swimmers, training aids are used to improve technique and build strength. These may include kickboards, pull buoys, fins, and paddles.

Other accessories may include nose clips, earplugs, and swim bags.

Recreational swimming is enjoyed by people of all ages for recreation and exercise. It may include swimming laps in a pool, playing games, or simply enjoying the water. Public pools, water parks, and natural bodies of water are common swimming venues.

Open water swimming takes place in natural bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. It may present challenges such as varying water conditions, water currents, underwater hazards, pollution, and wildlife. On the other hand, natural bodies of water do not have chlorine, and offer enhanced sensory experiences, as well as a connection with nature, variety, and a sense of adventure.

Besides speed and endurance tests, competitive swimming may include synchronized swimming, also known as artistic swimming, which combines swimming, dance, and gymnastics.

Major swimming competitions include the Olympic Games, FINA World Championships, national championships, collegiate competitions, and Masters swimming.

Each of these sports and activities may require unique equipment, accessories, and products, which are appropriate topics for this category, including websites representing manufacturers and retailers that produce and make these products available.

 

 

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