The Swimsuit So Good They Banned It
The Speedo LZR Racer swimsuit, used by 98% of medal-winning swimmers at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, was so effective it was later banned. This suit significantly reduced drag by using a special fabric called Laser Pulse, which was smoother than human skin and minimized water absorption. It also featured internal zippers, a core stabilizer for optimal body position, and rigid polyurethane panels that further reduced drag and added buoyancy. These design elements collectively improved a swimmer's speed and endurance. The suit was eventually banned due to concerns about "technological doping," its high cost, and limited availability, leading to new rules for competitive swimwear.
Key Vocabulary
A swimming stroke characterized by the swimmer's arms moving in a continuous circular motion, alternating between left and right, while the legs perform a flutter kick. It is often considered the fastest swimming stroke.
Examples:
- She preferred to swim freestyle because it allowed her to maintain a consistent pace.
- The coach focused on improving the swimmer's freestyle technique for the upcoming competition.
- During the summer, many children learn to swim freestyle in their local pool.
Sharp, pointed projections on the sole of a shoe, designed to provide enhanced grip and traction on various surfaces, particularly in sports.
Examples:
- The runner's new track shoes had long spikes for better grip on the synthetic surface.
- Soccer players often wear cleats with spikes to prevent slipping on wet grass.
- Hikers sometimes use attachable spikes on their boots when traversing icy trails.
A type of abrasive paper, typically used for smoothing surfaces or removing material through friction.
Examples:
- He used fine-grit sandpaper to prepare the wood before painting it.
- The carpenter smoothed the edges of the table with a piece of sandpaper.
- To remove the rust, she gently rubbed the metal surface with sandpaper.
Individuals who work together in the same company or organization.
Examples:
- My coworkers and I often go out for lunch on Fridays.
- She collaborated with her coworkers on a new project proposal.
- He enjoys the camaraderie he shares with his coworkers in the office.
Moving or acting with great speed; fast.
Examples:
- The speedy delivery service ensured the package arrived on time.
- A speedy recovery was hoped for after the minor surgery.
- The new computer boasts a speedy processor, making tasks much quicker.
A common informal abbreviation for 'polyurethane,' a versatile polymer used in various applications, including coatings, foams, and fibers.
Examples:
- The furniture was coated with a layer of poly for durability.
- He used poly to seal the wooden floor, giving it a glossy finish.
- The outdoor gear was made with a special poly fabric to withstand harsh weather.
Having a thick, sticky consistency between solid and liquid; not flowing easily.
Examples:
- The honey was so viscous that it dripped slowly from the spoon.
- Engine oil is a viscous fluid designed to lubricate moving parts.
- The scientist observed the viscous liquid flowing through the narrow tube.
A strong and adverse reaction by a large number of people, especially to a social or political development.
Examples:
- The company faced a significant backlash after announcing price increases.
- There was a public backlash against the new policy, leading to its reconsideration.
- The artist's controversial statement sparked a considerable backlash on social media.
Causing annoyance, irritation, or trouble.
Examples:
- The pesky flies kept buzzing around the picnic food.
- He tried to get rid of the pesky weeds that were growing in his garden.
- Dealing with pesky paperwork can be a time-consuming task.
Very pleased or delighted.
Examples:
- She was absolutely chuffed with her exam results.
- The team was chuffed to win the championship after all their hard work.
- He looked quite chuffed when he received the award.
To achieve a victory, success, or advantage, often quickly or unexpectedly.
Examples:
- The athlete snatched the gold medal in the final seconds of the race.
- She snatched a quick nap before her evening shift.
- The company managed to snatch the lucrative contract from its competitors.
The ability or tendency to float in water or air or some other fluid.
Examples:
- The boat's design provided excellent buoyancy, keeping it stable in rough waters.
- Learning about buoyancy is essential for understanding how ships float.
- The diver adjusted his equipment to control his buoyancy in the water.
The use of performance-enhancing drugs or methods in sports, which is typically illegal and unethical.
Examples:
- The athlete was banned from competition due to doping violations.
- Authorities are constantly working to detect and prevent doping in professional sports.
- The scandal brought renewed attention to the issue of doping in cycling.
To push someone or something roughly or carelessly.
Examples:
- He shoved his hands into his pockets as he walked away.
- She gently shoved the book back onto the shelf.
- The crowd shoved forward to get a better view of the stage.
To tear or cut into small, thin pieces.
Examples:
- The document was put through a shredder to protect sensitive information.
- She decided to shred the old fabric to use as stuffing for a cushion.
- The strong winds threatened to shred the tent during the storm.
A synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity, commonly used in athletic wear and form-fitting clothing.
Examples:
- The cyclist wore a suit made of spandex for maximum flexibility.
- Leggings often contain spandex to provide a comfortable, stretchy fit.
- The dancer's costume was made of a blend of cotton and spandex.
Easy to understand or operate without requiring much instruction or thought; naturally obvious.
Examples:
- The new smartphone interface was very intuitive, even for first-time users.
- Her understanding of the problem was intuitive, rather than based on formal analysis.
- The software's design was so intuitive that no manual was needed.
A natural or artificial hollow into which something fits or in which something revolves.
Examples:
- The light bulb twisted easily into its socket.
- The mechanic checked that all the bolts were firmly in their sockets.
- The robot's arm had rotating sockets that allowed for a wide range of motion.
A synthetic resin in which the polymer units are linked by urethane groups, used in various forms (e.g., foams, coatings, fibers) for its durability and versatility.
Examples:
- The furniture was upholstered with a durable polyurethane fabric.
- Polyurethane foam is commonly used for insulation in buildings.
- The protective coating on the floor was made of polyurethane for extra wear resistance.
Extremely tiring and demanding; arduous.
Examples:
- The athletes endured a grueling training regimen in preparation for the marathon.
- After a grueling day of travel, they were exhausted but satisfied.
- The climb to the summit was a grueling challenge, testing their endurance.