The Hydrodynamics of Self-Propulsion in Water: An Historical Review and Suggestions for Future Studies

The optimization of human swimming techniques and the development of aids for aquatic propulsion have significance for the recreational, industrial and military communities. However, until the relatively recent past the complex problems involved had received only superficial attention from competent investigators Recent research has provided evidence that the biomechanical constraints of the human body necessitate that powerful accelerative forces can only be created if the motions of the hand are predominantly medic–lateral. That is, the lift component of the hydrodynamic force on the hand may be the primary source of propulsion in swimming and other related aquatic activities. This problem has been investigated using a variety of research techniques, but there is a need to utilize additional strategies in order to generate sound objective data.