pool sprint by pyry tamminen

preparing for a pool sprint still from video

finnish designer pyry tamminen has developed ‘pool sprint’ which takes running to new extremes – in the water. the training method and equipment have been invented and developed by tamminen. the special running mat and shoes enable maximum performance and running under water, by providing good grip for one’s feet at the bottom of the pool.

water provides a good resistance to the runner, making pool sprint an interesting alternative to other exercise. the tempo of running can be changed easily, making this program suitable to most runners. as one leans forward, the water resistance flows around them more smoothly, making running easier. the idea behind the ‘pool sprint’ and the equipment used is based on this running position of forward-leaning. since the bottom of the pool is slippery, it is difficult to nearly impossible to jump from the bottom when in this stance. this is where the special ‘pool sprint’ equipment comes into play.

pool spring is a good way for exercisers who wish to explore their physical limits.

in the pool getting ready to sprint still from video

taking off still from video

still from video

the track pad still from video

still from video

still from video

materials used are: rubber, plastic, stainless steel and aluminium, with track dimensions of 1800 x 700 x 100 mm

still from video

sprint complete still from video

the shoes and running mat which pyry tamminen has designed image © designboom

the shoes with specially designed good grip soles image © designboom

‘pool sprint’ was presented at the ‘straightforward : new finnish design‘ exhibition in the meatpacking district during new york design week 2010. the show illustrated how traditional values of finnish design are still present in the work of finnish designers today. ‘straightforward’ was a presentation of innovative solutions to matters concerning everyday life and included projects by over 50 individual designers.