Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

New rules adjust swimsuits

Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Swimming’s governing body adopted new rules for the high-tech suits that helped produce more than 100 world records since their introduction just more than a year ago.

The guidelines announced Saturday “revise the requirements for swimsuit approval” and will be in place for the world championships in Rome starting July 17. FINA stipulated that swimsuits should not cover the neck and will not extend past the shoulders and ankles.

The suits will be limited to a maximum thickness of 1mm (0.04 inch) and with a restricted buoyancy effect.

The new regulations ban external aids for the swimmer, such as pain reduction or electro-stimulation.

The suits can not be customized for individual athletes, according to FINA’s statement.