8 of the Best Training Aids for Swimming

Swim aids are special tools and equipment that are crafted to help you learn how to swim faster and more efficiently. Some training aids are designed specifically for children and novice swimmers, while others are developed for more professional uses. Investing in high-quality, durable training aids is one of the most helpful steps you can take when trying to challenge or grow your aquatic ability. Whether you are new to swimming, teaching somone else or training hard to perfect your skills, using training aids during your lessons can help you improve your skills, master techniques and keep you safe.

Top Swimming Training Equipment

Beginning swimmers, lifeguards leading swim lessons and experienced athletes with training regimes can all benefit from incorporating the following training aids into their routine. Shop Swim Gear

1. Floats and Buoys

There are different kinds of swimming floats and buoys available for training, each one ideal for varying levels of experience and age. Two of the most common swimming tools used for training and learning are floating rings and pull buoys.

• Floating rings: There are two basic types of floating rings: safety rings used by lifeguards during emergency situations, and floating rings and rafts used by children and new swimmers to keep afloat while learning how to navigate the water.
• Pull buoys: Athletes or professional swimmers use pull buoys, weights and other swimming workout accessories to strengthen their arms and upper torso by placing the pull buoy between their thighs. The additional weight pulling their lower body encourages a swimmer to rely on and improve their upper body muscles.

2. Hand Paddles

Before diving into the water, training athletes and new swimmers can attach swim paddles to their hands and use them to glide more easily through the water. Hand paddles help increase arm strength, quicken pace and improve technique and form while in the water. When choosing a pair of hand paddles, always pay attention to the manufacturer's sizing instructions for the best results. Some different types of hand paddles include:

• Standard pulse paddles allow the wrist full range of motion and are ideal for learning freestyle techniques.
• Forearm fulcrum paddles have two separate holes for arms to slide into to help you develop muscle memory.
• Hand paddles with adjustable straps help you master different swimming strokes.

3. Swim Goggles

Swim goggles make it possible to see underwater without hurting your eyes. For new swimmers, this is a great way to feel more comfortable and less worried about full-body submersion. For experienced swimmers, goggles help you swim toward your destination quickly and with ease. When choosing a pair of swim goggles, make sure they fit securely against your head without digging into your skin. If the goggles are not secure, water will leak through. Look for a pair that has an adjustable or flexible head strap. Always test that the goggle frames are the right size for your eyes and that you have a clear visual scope of the area around you when you try them on. Some goggles also have features like UV protection, metallic lenses with reduced glare and lenses with anti-fog properties that help you swim even better.

4. Swim Fins

Swim fins — also known as swim flippers — are training fins worn on the feet to make swimming quicker and easier. They are also an excellent way to help swimmers improve their kicking techniques. Many swimmers find that swimming with fins is more fun, and studies have shown swimming with fins takes approximately 40% less energy than swimming without them. Less spent energy allows swimmers to spend longer training because their muscles do not tire as quickly.

5. Snorkels

Snorkels are for more than exploring coral reefs on a vacation adventure — they are also some of the best swimming tools for training. Using a snorkel increases lung capacity and helps you stay underwater longer. Because they provide easy access to oxygen when you need it, they also free up the mental space you need to focus on mastering a new technique or formation, including keeping your head in the correct position. There are different types of swim snorkels available, including:

• Speed snorkels with minimal head straps
• Dry-capped swim snorkels
• Junior snorkels for kids

6. Earplugs

Earplugs are not necessarily a piece of swimming training gear, but they are immensely useful for novice and experienced swimmers because they minimize the risk of developing swimmer's ear. Swimmer's ear is an infection of the ear canal caused by bacterial growth that happens naturally when water becomes trapped in your ear. Swimmer's ear can be painful and cause temporary hearing loss. Severe cases could grow into a more permanent injury. Soft silicone earplugs can help seal your ear canal and prevent too much water from getting inside.

7. Kickboards

Swimmers can grip floating kickboards while they swim and practice their kicking techniques and leg positioning. Both adults and children who are unsure of how to use their legs to propel themselves while swimming can benefit from the use of a kickboard. There are different types of kickboards available for adults and children. For example, you might consider one of the following:

• A kickboard with handgrips so it is easier to hold on while paddling
• An inflatable kickboard for easy storage and portability
• A convex kickboard with a unique shape designed as swimming strength training equipment for athletes

8. Pool Noodles

Pool noodles are lightweight and constructed from closed cell polyethylene foam, which makes them very flexible. Kids enjoy swimming with them for this reason, and that is why many pool noodles are available in bright colors. However, they are more than just a fun, floating swim toy for kids — pool noodles can also be a valuable swimming float for training. By holding on to a pool noodle while swimming, you can easily keep yourself afloat while practicing flutter kicks and developing your strength and resistance techniques.

Become the Swimmer You Want to Be With Equipment From Kiefer

No matter your experience, Kiefer has the training aids you need to become a better swimmer. Visit us online today to browse our selection of swim tools, swimwear, lifeguard gear and facility equipment.