What does resistance in swimming mean?

Answer 1

Resistence is a drag. An example of it in swimming is hair. That's why swimmers that compete use swim caps or shave their heads. It makes it harder for swimmers to glide through the water. Another example of this is a baggy swim suit. It catches the water and slows the swimmer down. Some atheletes use resistence to an advantage during practices. They tie a bag or "parachute" to their ankles and try to swim. It's harder to swim, and therefore, the swimmer gets a much better workout. When the parachute is untied, it's much easier to swim. Resistence is bad if the swimmer is racing.

Another way to have resistance is to try to kick with shoes on or with a drag suit. Swimmers use these to improve their legs. They also use paddles on their hands to improve their stroke.