XHOG Articles : Swimming Equipment

The equipment that is required for swimming can be very simple but there are a whole host of options that can help you get the most out of your time in the water.

Swimming Costume
The minimum you need to be able to get in the water - you may get asked to leave the pool without one.

Swimming Goggles
The majority of swimmers wear swimming goggles to protect their eyes from the water and any chemicals within. The most important thing about choosing a pair of swimming goggles is fit - find a pair that fit comfortably on the face. Everyone has a slightly different shaped face so make sure you choose the ones right for you - a pair of goggles are no good, no matter what they cost, if they don't maintain a seal with your face and keep the water out, so don't be afraid to open the packaging in a shop to allow you to try them on.

Earplugs /Nose Clips
If you are prone to ear discomfort while swimming it is worth investing, a small amount, on swimming ear plugs. Modern earplugs are very comfortable and after a while you will not notice you have them in, They are usually made of soft silicone and their role is to reduce the risk of water and cold air entering the auditory canal during swimming. These are sold by most pools and help prevent that dreaded water in the ear feeling that may occur after a long swim.

Likewise if you are the sort of person that feels they are constantly inhaling water through their nose then invest, again a small amount, in a swim nose clip

Float / Kickboard
Floats/kickboards serve two primary purposes; they allow non-swimmers to remain buoyant (suspended without sinking) and they can also be used as a training tool for more competent swimmers. Floats allow beginners to the swimming pool to become confident in the water before they finally try to swim strokes. They also can be used during training drills to build up the swimmers legs. They are normally made from EVA foam and come in various designs.

Pull buoy
Similar to floats and kickboards a pull buoy is designed as a tool to use during drills, it is designed to be held between the legs, thus maintaining leg position in the water, while the swimmer works on specific arm drills

Paddles
Swimming paddles are a held in the swimmers hand and can increase speed and feel, making some stroke flaws more obvious. They also add an extra load to the workout, which can result in improved conditioning, it is also advisable not to over use paddles as they can lead to injury, especially when just starting out using them, swimmers must complete each stroke with good technique and listen to their body. If something hurts, stop! (Note some pools may not allow the use of fins during open/public session)

Fins
Referred to by some as flippers, these are similar to those used by scuba divers and snorkellers, but normally much smaller (classed as small bladed) and are basically a rubber covering to the foot that help swimming by providing more power from the kick. They help in training by increase your kick strength, ankle flexibility and improve your body position. (Note some pool may not allow the use of fins during open/public session)

Swimming Cap
The latest design in swim caps allows the swimmer to move smoothly through the water, does not pull your hair and keeps it dry to. They are made of plastic, latex or lycra and slip over your head but are prone to ripping as they are made with very lightweight material. They also help keep the warmth in during open water swimming and are normally a loud/bright colour to allow a swimmer, in open water to be easily spotted.

Wetsuit
Wetsuits can be expensive costing up to £300 but are essential when taking part in open water swims (especially here in the UK) a wetsuit will help you keep warm. For swimming though, you need to make sure that the wetsuit chosen is a swimming specific (or Triathlon specific) one. These suits allow a full range of swimming movement and are designed to deliver optimum buoyancy. ( a fuller article on wetsuits will follow)