Weight vs Water Resistance: Comparing Exercise Challenges

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the comparison of weight resistance versus water resistance during exercise. Participants agree that while both forms of resistance challenge the body, they operate under different physical principles. Water resistance acts multidirectionally, while weight resistance is solely influenced by gravity. The conversation highlights the complexity of equating the two, suggesting that any attempts to simulate swimming conditions with weights would require trial and error rather than a straightforward formula.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to forces and resistance
  • Familiarity with exercise physiology and the effects of different resistance types on the body
  • Knowledge of swimming mechanics and how water resistance functions
  • Experience with weight training and its impact on muscle engagement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of water resistance in swimming
  • Explore studies on resistance training and its effects on swimming performance
  • Investigate methods for simulating swimming conditions using weights
  • Learn about the biomechanics of movement in different resistance environments
USEFUL FOR

Fitness enthusiasts, swimming coaches, exercise scientists, and anyone interested in optimizing their training by understanding the differences between weight and water resistance.

uknowho
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How much weight would I have to carry to equal the resistance I would face swimming in a pool of water? Let's assume I am wearing the same clothing to perform both events.
 
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I don't see how you can get a very exact equivalence since the forces acting against you would be different, and I think that holds even if you were able to distribute the weight evenly around your body. The water resists your movement in whatever direction you move against it whereas gravity only acts downward.
 
Agreed. It's apples and oranges. There might be some studies done on ways of simulating swimming conditions using weights, but it won't be a direct connection, like a formula, it will be a trial and error thing. And very dependent on variables.
 

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