Sharp, R. L., & Costill, D. L. (1990). Shaving a little time. Swimming Technique, November 1989-January 1990, 10-13.

Physiological measures were taken in trained swimmers performing a pace-controlled 400 m breaststroke swim under conditions of being shaved and unshaved. Two groups were compared.

Results showed that the physiological effort of swimming decreased in the shaved condition. Also:

1. the distance per stroke increased;
2. oxygen uptake decreased;
3. blood lactate decreased; and
4. a velocity decay test from a push-off was improved.

Implication. Shaving before major competitions provides a measurable physiological advantage for swimmers primarily through the reduction of active drag.

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