Drafting (racing)

This article is about the racing technique. For other uses, see Drafting (disambiguation)

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Drafting is a technique in sports racing where competitors align in a close group in order to reduce the overall effect of drag or fluid resistance of the group. Especially when high speeds are involved, drafting can significantly reduce the average energy expenditure required to maintain a certain speed.

Related Topics:
Sports - Racing - Drag

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Drafting is usually to reduce wind resistance and is seen most commonly in bicycle racing and car racing, though is occasionally used even in running. Some forms of triathlon allow drafting. Fluid resistance can also mean water resistance, however, and so drafting is sometimes seen in swimming as well, particularly in "open-water" swim events where competitors are not separated into distinct lanes.

Related Topics:
Wind resistance - Bicycle racing - Car racing - Running - Triathlon - Swimming

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In cycling, the main (largest) group of tightly-packed cyclists in a race is called a peloton, while cyclists riding in straight-line formation, each (but the first) drafting behind the one in front of him, is called a paceline.

Related Topics:
Cycling - Peloton

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Drafting can be cooperative, in which several competitors take turns in the lead position (which requires the most effort and energy consumption). Or, it can be competitive or tactical, where one competitor will try to stay closely behind another leaving him or her more energy (or fuel, in auto racing) for a break-away push to the finish line.

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