In Olympic swimming, why do the swimmers put pool water into their mouths and then spit it out?

Question

I've been watching the olympic swimming and noticed that some swimmers do it and some don't. i'm a swimmer but i've never done that...should i start doing it? haha. seriously though.

Answer 1

I think it might be a quick and easy (albeit disgusting) way to quickly hydrate a little.  They are under extreme pressure because of the physical exertion required.  You don't seem to see it too much during swimming races, but I did notice it a lot in water polo.  Hope this helps!

Answer 2

Kinda like me its just a habit~! u dont have to start doing it i advise u not to do it,but its ur choice!

Answer 3

There is no specific reason. Every swimmer has their own little routine they do before a big race. Michael Phelps flaps his arms three times on the block before his event. Many female swimmers obsessively check their goggles cap, goggles, cap, and etc. before they get on the block. (i kinda do that)