Swimming is an excellent full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. However, having the right equipment is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your training as well as increasing variety. I am going to explore the essential equipment for swim training that can help swimmers of all levels enhance their performance and technique. From kickboards to the right goggles, the best tools can make all the difference to your swimming. Products on this page are from affiliates so I will recieve a small amount at no extra cost to you. I only recommend what I would personally use or recommend to my coached athletes.
Essential Tools to Become a Better Swimmer
Investing in the right swim equipment can better your performance and make your swim training more effective. Here’s a look at some essential tools every swimmer should consider:
Kickboard
A kickboard is a fundamental tool for isolating your legs during training. It allows swimmers to focus on their kicking technique, helping to build leg strength and endurance. Kickboards are particularly beneficial for improving your position in the water, reducing the drag you create.
A strong kick will also improve your propulsion, which is essential for speed and stability in the water. Incorporating kicking with a board into your swim routine can lead to a more powerful kick and a higher body position, enabling you to swim faster with less effort over time!
I recommend a kickboard that isn’t too buoyant but also not too small, so you can comfortably keep your head up without feeling like your arms are in the air. I have used a Maru kickboard for the last 21 years; unfortunately, they don’t make them anymore! The kids that I coach seem to prefer the Speedo kickboard nowadays.
Swimming Fins
If you struggle to move efficiently when only using a kickboard, fins will be an invaluable addition to your training arsenal. They enhance ankle flexibility and strength, which are crucial for effective kicking. This ankle flexibility is likely what you lack if you find it challenging to move quickly without them!
Fins also increase propulsion and improve kicking technique by allowing you to glide through the water with less effort. Integrating fins into your sessions gives you a better feel for what swimming really fast feels like, as they significantly boost your speed. So, if you want to swim faster and improve your ankle flexibility, you should definitely add these to your training.
I would recommend short fins. Longer fins don’t work your ankles enough to provide significant benefits. I love my MARU fins.
Pull Buoy
The pull buoy is designed to help swimmers concentrate on their upper body technique by keeping the legs afloat. This promotes a high hip position, which reduces drag and allows for a more efficient stroke. By using a pull buoy, you can focus on the pulling motion of your arms, enhancing muscle engagement in your upper body.
Regular use of a pull buoy can lead to stronger upper body muscles, allowing you to create more propulsion and move forward faster. It can also increase your awareness of where your hips and legs should be in the water when not using it, ultimately improving your body position.
You don’t need anything too fancy when it comes to pull buoys. Something simple, such as the Maru pull buoy, will suffice.
If you tend to sink a lot, you might consider the HUUB Big Buoy, but I wouldn’t recommend it unless your legs typically drag along the bottom!
Swim Paddles
Swim paddles are designed to increase the surface area of your hands, enabling you to pull more water with each stroke. This equipment helps build upper body strength and improve stroke technique. Using paddles in your training can enhance your catch and pull phases, resulting in a more powerful and efficient stroke.
They can also highlight inefficiencies in your arm cycle, as the water will push your hands the wrong way if your fingers are pointing incorrectly at the wrong time. However, it’s essential to use swim paddles correctly to avoid strain on your shoulders and wrists.
If you are a beginner or have had shoulder issues in the past, I recommend something smaller and more comfortable, such as the Maru Hand Paddles.
For stronger swimmers, I would definitely go for the Speedo Biofuse Power Paddle in large. These will give you a really good upper body workout.
Swimming Snorkel
The swimmer’s snorkel is a versatile tool that allows you to maintain a streamlined position while focusing on your stroke mechanics. By keeping your head down, you can concentrate on body position and breathing patterns without the distraction of turning your head to breathe. This equipment is especially beneficial for developing proper stroke rhythm and balance in the water.
Regular use of a snorkel can help refine your tehnique and improve overall swim efficiency. Be sure to check that your local pool allows the use of snorkels before diving in!
I am only able to use snorkels when training abroad, as none of my local pools permit them. However, when I do, I always use the FINIS Center Mount Snorkel, as it allows for the most natural head position.
Training Goggles
Training goggles are essential for any swimmer, providing visibility in the water and protection from chlorine and UV rays. High-quality goggles allow you to see pace clocks, lane markers, and other swimmers clearly, enabling you to focus on what matters the most; your technique and performance. Investing in a good pair of training goggles will significantly improve your overall experience.
Based on my experience with various goggles, my main piece of advice is to choose what fits you best. The most expensive option isn’t necessarily the best for you. If possible, press them against your eyes without the strap around your head; if they stay on, they will likely fit well.
For the past 16 years, I have used variations of the Speedo Speedsocket goggles. They have been perfect for me, and I use them in open water too, as they provide slight shading and full UV protection. They are also relatively affordable.
Boost Your Experience with Equipment for Your Swim Training
With the right equipment in your swim training toolkit, you can improve your performance, technique, and overall enjoyment of the sport. Make sure to invest in the essential gear that will best support your swimming journey. If you would like a structured program to use all of your kit and get the most out of your swim training check out our Swim Plans
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