Swim Bag Essentials: Basic Gear For Swim And Triathlon Noobs!
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Over the past 10 years I have worked with several athletes who were new to triathlon and swimming. One of the first questions I always get from these people is what equipment will I need for swim training over the next several months. This article will hopefully serve as a quick guide to some of the basic swim equipment you will need to get you started into the wonderful world of swimming! I have also included some links so that you can purchase any of the recommended pieces of equipment. As you progress in your swimming and triathlon gear, you may decide to purchase even more pieces of equipment that have a very specific purpose but this list includes just the basics. If you are new to swimming or triathlon, then I hope this quick equipment guide will speed you on your way. If you have questions about other gear not listed or think I have missed an essential piece of equipment, then please let me know in the comments!
Goggles
Goggles are simply eye wear that you use to keep the water out of your eyes so you can see while you swim. Throughout your swim career you will need multiple pairs but to start one will do. If you are training at an indoor pool, then I would recommend getting clear lens goggles. If you are training at an outdoor pool or open water, then you may want to get dark or mirrored lenses. I recommend TYR Nest Pro for both environments.
Swim Cap
A swim cap is head wear that is usually made out of latex or silicon that helps to keep your hair contained and helps make you more hydrodynamic. This is more for those with long hair but people with short hair use them as well. Some pools require that all people wear them so you may want to ask your instructor the pool policy on swim caps. If you are swimming in the open water, then you will want to get a brightly colored one to help make you more visible to boats and lifeguards on shore. Show your flair by getting a cap that represents your personality!
Kickboard
A kickboard is usually a high density foam that floats and usually has a rectangular shape. A kickboard helps you to isolate your legs. This will allow you to work on developing your leg strength and work on your kicking technique. Kickboards are all pretty much the same so you should purchase the one that calls to you!
Fins
Fins are rubber foot wear that usually extends between 4-10 inches past your toes. Fins are great when you are learning drills that require a stroke kick. They will allow you to understand the drill and what it should feel like. You will then work to recreate the same feeling without fins. Fins are also used to strength the muscles in your legs and core to improve your kick. They will also help you with ankle flexibility over time. You will use fins throughout the course of your swim and triathlon careers for many different purposes. There are many different types of fins out there like short fins and split fins. I recommend using a pair of normal swim fins and purchasing some of the more advanced fins. I like the Sporti Fins because they are inexpensive and last forever if you take care of them! These normal fins will get a lot of use throughout your swim career. I would also recommend wearing a pair of thin socks when you use your fins to help prevent chaffing and blistering.
Pull Buoy
A pull buoy is a figure 8 shaped piece of equipment made out of EVA foam. The pull buoy is placed between your quads while you swim. This prevents you from kicking so it isolates your upper body. This allows you to work on working on your pull technique along with helping you improve your upper body strength. Pull buoys are all pretty similar and because of this I like to go with a cheaper option. Sporti makes a great pull buoy that will do everything your instructor requires.
Paddles
Paddles come in all shapes and sizes but I prefer a more simple paddle for newer swimmers. Paddles are rectangular plastic boards that are about the size of the hand that are worn on your hands. Paddles will increase the resistance on your arms and will help you to develop upper body strength. Paddles will also help you to focus on proper pull technique and will increase stamina and muscular endurance. When selecting paddles, it is important to purchase a pair that are only about 1-2 inches longer than your finders. Wearing paddles that are too big for you can lead to shoulder injuries when coupled with poor pull technique. The Sporti Power Swim Paddles is perfect for entry level swimming.
Swimmer’s Snorkel
A swimmer’s snorkel is a snorkel that is worn on the center of the forehead instead of the side of the head. This is a great tool to help you achieve proper body position while swimming and a natural breathing rhythm before you even master breathing technique. The swimmer’s snorkel removes the interruption of turning your head to breathe. This allows you to relax in the water so you can maintain body alignment and work to improve your stroke efficiency. As with any other piece of equipment, you have many options. I personally recommend the Finis Swimmer’s Snorkel. I prefer this one because it is very comfortable and it is extremely durable and will last you a long time.
Ankle Band
The ankle band is a slightly more advanced piece of equipment but it doesn’t hurt to have as you will probably be using it pretty quickly. The ankle band is simple a large rubber band that goes around your ankles so that you are unable to kick. The purpose of the ankle band is for you to be able to swim without kicking and maintain proper body position so your feet stay high in the water without the help of the kick. This will take time and practice, but once you master this you know you are making progress. By removing the kick, the ankle band will force you to really focus on you upper body and core strength. It will also help you to find and eliminate any dead spots that may be in your stroke. I prefer to save the money and make my own but the only real ankle band available for purchase is the Finis Pulling Ankle Band. Making your own is very easy if you don’t want to purchase one. You can take an old thick therapy band or bicycle tube then cut it and wrap it around your ankle. Give yourself a tiny bit of slack and tie the band in a loop around your ankles. Now you have a homemade ankle band!