Matsunami, M., & Taunura, A. (2008). Trend to swimsuit choices of male swimmers in the competition from 2001 to 2007. ACSM 55th Annual Meeting Indianapolis, Presentation Number, 2186.

This study evaluated male swimmers' choices of swimsuits over a 7-year period (2001-2007). Ss competed in the intercollegiate swimming championship in Japan, and advanced to the A or B finals. The type of swimsuit was classified as a classic type and in terms of body coverage, categorized as being from waist-to-knee, waist-to-ankle, shoulder-to-knee, shoulder-to-ankle, and full body suits.

Classic suits were hardly seen (freestyle 1.4%, breaststroke 6.3%, backstroke, butterfly and individual medley 0% in 2007). The rates of waist-to-ankle selection increased in freestyle events (54.2% to 75.0%). In backstroke, although the rates of waist-to-knee selection increased from 2002 to 2005 (50.0% to 71.9%), the rates of waist-to-ankle selection also increased from 2005 to 2007 (21.9% to 46.9%). In breaststroke, waist-to-knee selection exceeded 90% after 2003. The rates of waist-to-ankle selection in the butterfly increased steadily (46.9% to 96.9%). In individual medley events, waist-to-knee selection rose (93.8% in 2007).

Implication. These findings suggest that swimmers recognize the swimsuit as a piece of equipment that enhances performance. Swimmers apparently select the swimsuits they feel are appropriate for race categories, because the swimsuits worn in each event is different.

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