Why Do Olympic Swimmers Shower After Swimming?

Many people ask, “Why do Olympic swimmers shower after swimming?” They do so to avoid the tightening of muscles after a hard session in the water. Sudden changes in core temperature are not only uncomfortable for the athletes but can cause muscle cramps and other issues. Moreover, when preparing for a dive, athletes don’t want to breathe tough air outside. Some athletes use hot tubs.

chamois towels are sprayed in Olympic diving pools

The chamois towel is a small, lightweight towel that is soaked up and dried quickly. Unlike other towels, it is not large enough to wrap around your body and is therefore perfect for ultralightweight camping and divers. The material also helps absorb moisture, which makes it perfect for use in vehicles after washing. Chamois leather is also frequently used in artists’ work, as small pieces are used as blending tools for charcoal drawings.

Olympic divers use small towels before and after dives, which are soaked with water. A chamois towel is designed to dry quickly, which is essential to avoid getting cold and slippery during a dive. If a diver is cold and wet, they will be more likely to tense up during the descent, making it a risky activity.

They are used as a deodorant

Olympic swimmers and divers regularly take a shower after a competition. It is a great way to relax and prevent muscle cramps. Diving into the cold water can be jarring and cause cramping, so a hot shower helps to loosen and relax the muscles. Sometimes, the swimmers even jump into a hot tub.

The connection between perspiration and deodorant emerged in the 19th century when the first deodorant was developed. This product, called Mum, was first marketed in magazines as a remedy for excessive perspiration. It was later marketed for its ability to keep clothing clean and also to prevent social offenses related to sweat odor.

They help keep swimmers clean

Showering after swimming can help prevent water-borne illness and disease. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average human carries 0.14 grams of fecal matter in their body. Even a small amount can make someone sick. People who do not shower after swimming is at increased risk for recreational water illnesses. It is also important to shower after swimming because bacteria and germs love to spread through hair.

Most swimmers do not shower after swimming because they do not have time. Public swimming pools and natatoriums typically have open shower areas, and swimmers may not want to get out of their swimsuits to take a shower. Nevertheless, showering after swimming helps keep swimmers clean and reduces the likelihood of developing skin infections.

They reduce the risk of infection

A thorough shower helps reduce the risk of infection. It removes body oils, cosmetics, and perspiration. It also helps remove traces of urine and fecal matter. These substances can cause infections, so it’s important to shower thoroughly after swimming. Not only will you minimize the risk of infection, but you’ll also minimize the “yuck factor” for other pool users.

The CDC and the EPA have tips and resources on swimming safety. In addition to providing tips on how to avoid infection, they provide helpful information about water monitoring programs and swimming restrictions. Although the risk of waterborne diseases is small, it’s still best to be prepared for it.