If you're looking at serious swimming, whether it's racing or lap swimming, you need a serious suit. This isn't the time for that beach-ready bikini or modest swimdress. High-tech fabrics and streamlined styles make training swimsuits easy to wear and work out in, regardless of your workout plan. Special considerations, like a long torso, large bust or larger figure, can make it difficult -- but not impossible -- to find a good quality and well-fitting training suit.
Basic Training Suits
The basic lap swimming suit has a high neckline; a racer back or cross-back to leave your shoulders free and support your back; and relatively low, modestly cut legs. Training suits may contain a front lining, but generally provide bust support solely through compression. This may not be comfortable or adequate if you're large-busted. Like recreational swimwear, these suits are typically made from a lycra-spandex blend; however, the fabric may contain more spandex than is typical. You'll notice that training suits fit snugly, compared with a regular swimsuit.
Leg Suits
While most training suits look like streamlined versions of beach or pool wear, leg suits have a high neckline and longer legs to reduce drag. The suit typically closes with a back zipper. These suits are not practical or comfortable for the average lap swimmer, but may be a good choice for competitive swimmers or triathletes. Opt for a leg suit if you prefer a more modest look for the pool.
Larger Bustlines
If you're above a C-cup, you may not find that a compression-style suit to be comfortable or attractive. Choose a simply styled one-piece suit with a racer or criss-cross back design that contains either a soft-cup-style bra or an underwire bra. Find suits to fit D-cup and DD-cup sizes at some swim stores or athletic wear shops. Check lingerie retailers for bra cup-sized suits for lap swimming or training. Adequate bust support is essential to allow you to push yourself and attain your fitness goals.
Long Torso
If you have a long torso, which is the measurement from your shoulder to the crotch, you may have difficulty finding a one-piece training suit that fits. Look for suits made for longer torsos, or opt for a sporty two-piece tankini. For racing, you may experience more drag with a tankini. If you're taking water aerobics or swimming laps for fitness, this may not be a problem. Select a style with a modest neckline and supportive fit so you can focus on your workout -- and not your wardrobe.
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