Yes, competitive swimmers often shave all body hair, including the pubic area.
Shaving body hair, including pubic hair, is a common practice among competitive swimmers, especially before important races. Here's why:
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Reduced Drag: Shaving removes hair, which creates drag in the water. Less drag allows swimmers to glide through the water more efficiently, potentially improving their speed and performance. This is particularly noticeable for elite swimmers where even milliseconds matter.
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Enhanced Feel for the Water: With the removal of body hair, swimmers often report an increased sensitivity to the water. This enhanced sensory feedback can help them refine their technique and feel more connected to the water.
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Psychological Advantage: Shaving can provide a mental boost. Knowing they've done everything possible to prepare, including reducing drag, can increase a swimmer's confidence before a race.
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Full-Body Shaving: Swimmers typically shave their entire bodies—legs, arms, chest, back, and yes, the pubic area—to maximize these benefits.
While not every swimmer shaves, and the practice is more prevalent at higher levels of competition, the benefits of reducing drag and increasing sensory feedback make it a common choice.
