Q: I am a pretty good 14 year old swimmer, and I am hoping to make state this year. What are some quick, easy ways to drop time? Also, how much of a difference does an FS-PRO legskin make over a jammer?
A: Little things make HUGE differences in swimming. My coach always says that fingertips win races. Breathing less can drop time as well as never breathing out of or into your turns. Work on improving turns, because often that's where races are won and lost. Finishes are also very important. Make sure you finish hard into the wall, and on your side, not flat. I would also recommend never breathing between the flags and the wall, it's just another little way to drop time. I believe the legskin would make you faster because more of your body is more streamlined. If you don't shave your legs, than defnitely go legskin. But if your coach requires you to shave, than the jammer may be a better option. Good luck with states!