Swimming 101: The story behind what you see at an Olympic pool

With Canada's top swimmers going after Olympic spots this week in Toronto, we're giving fans an inside look at what the competitors deal with at top-level swim meets.

Hover over the icons to go poolside with KellyVanderBeekandsee exactly what the Canadian swimmers can expectin Rio.

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Nothing happens until he says so

Lockie Listerensures the swimmers get to the right lanes and no one goes until he gives the signal.

Breaking down the blocks

Former national team swimmerCallum Ng knows the starting blocks well. The blocks are built for propulsion, he explains. Similar to a track start, you want to set yourself up for the bestforward momentum possible.

Lane ropes of paddle boats?

Ever wonder why those lane ropes look like big paddle boats? They actually stopthe water from clearing into the other lane so you're not splashing andblindingthe racer next to you.

Not-so-ready room

The ready room is where the swimmers wait to hear their names called before stepping onto the deck to compete on the big stage.

More than just decorations

The five-metre backstroke flags are there to give the swimmers a heads up that the wall is approaching and get their stroke count down.

Safety first

Every pool needs a lifeguard.

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A pool of Olympic proportion

An Olympic-size pool is 50 metres long but FINAalso has 25-metre pools, which actuallymakes the swimmers faster because of their momentum from pushing off the wall.

15-metre rope

The white rope located at the 15-metre mark drops into the water letting the swimmers know that there's been a false start. It's also the furthest point swimmers can stay beneath the surface.

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Leading the flying V

Lane 4 has to be earned. In the finals it goes to the fastest racer from the heats. The assumption is that whomever is in lane fouris leading the pack and setting the pace.

Jargon

Don't forget to brush up on your swimmers jargon before heading to your next race!

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