What's so special about the Water Cube's pool?

Question

So I've heard experts say that not only are the suits responsible for the huge number of swimming records broken this Olympics, but the pool is also responsible. What's so special about that pool?

Answer 1

First of all, its an Olypmic-style pool in general, making it in top condition, The water level is precisely maintained (different heights of the water in relation to the wall, deeper pool), and special gutters and other objects also create a "faster pool". Plus the fan support always motivates the swimmers to go faster, and I'm guessing that the acoustics are great in there. And also, I'm sure they keep the pool VERY clean, which also results in faster races.

Answer 2

The pool is deeper than usual and the lines were supposed to reduce the turbulence in the water from other swimmers.

Answer 3

Because Michael Phelps was in it. If they haven't changed the water, I want to drink it! (Kidding of course, I just love the man.)

Answer 4

Nothing special about the pool. The pool is regulation size. The atmosphere in that arena does push the athletes harder and that results in better performances and more world records...that and Micheal Phelps is amazing.

Answer 5

1) the pool is 1metre deeper than usual..

2) the pool is 2 lanes wider than usual..

this reduce the turbelence and friction

Answer 6

Maybe they are saying that Chinese water is slicker, lighter, less viscous.  That's ridiculous.

I think they are running out of things to analyze and need to fill time.  Others are just rationalizing.  The fact is, there are many fast swimmers this year.  

Do not rely on reporters to give analysis.  They are trained to read news, not to think about it.

Answer 7

Meezer,

The Water Cube's pool is technologically advanced with features such as:

1.) optimum depth for fast swims: 3 meters deep

2.) flow over gutters to help alleviate as much of the 'back wash' waves that would result if the full effect of the waves reverberated back towards the swimmers off the walls.

3.) Flow through walls - I'm just talking about the bulk heads at the ends of each pool.

Now, the only issue with this is that this is not the only pool in the world with these features. But the Water Cube was a spectacular work of architecture and used for these games so you're going to hear a lot of hype.

Hope this helps.

Enjoy!

Answer 8

the water cube outer shell is specifically designed to save tons of energy every year, which saves tons of money, therefore the pool is kept in top condition, water stayes at a constant temp. that will suit a swimmer the best, not too hot or too cold.  the temp. of the air in the cube is kept at a comfortable temp. for swimmers and audience.  some pools contain some flouride which can make something move a little faster in the water