Training Equipment for Swimming

Let’s face it…if you ask most Triathletes what their least favorite event is, more than likely you would hear them say loud and proud “SWIMMING”. It doesn’t have to be this way though; swimming can be fun with the right training gear and the proper knowledge. There are several types of training aids out there and which one to pick can be overwhelming, but have no fear I am here to help you pick the right one.

First you must ask yourself what are you trying to accomplish, what distance you are shooting for and what your weaknesses are? Once you have answered all these questions, you are one step closer to getting the right gear.

Let’s now get started into the equipment and what’s what…

TYR Mentor Hand Paddle: This paddle’s main function is to do what we as triathletes have a hard time doing…putting our hands in the correct position while entering and existing the water. These paddles are also good for keeping stress and strain off the shoulders.

TYR Catalyst Paddle: Bring it on paddle! These are the word’s I would use to describe this paddle. Not only does it help with hand placement, but it also works on your lats. Soon you will be called HE-MAN or SUPERWOMAN!

TYR Split Fin: Watch out speed demon! These split-fins push so hard in the pool, that you must pay attention to the wall in front of you, if not you might just be calling 9-1-1. These fins focus on leg strength and not so much on hand placement, but note to self you will feel it in your legs.

Z2 Zoomers Fin: These fins focus on the kick and on the hand placement. Again you are moving fast, so just be aware of what is in front of you or you know what number you are going to have to dial…9-1-1

TYR Steamline Training Board: Unlike most kick boards you will come across, this kick board allows you to stay in the right position while practicing your kick. It takes the stress off your shoulders and upper back. This board is also good for side swimming or practicing your bi-lateral breathing.

Finis Lap Track: This device can be difficult to set up…let’s not even talk about how long it has taken me to figure it out. Before you go throw it across the room and beat it with a bat…take a deep breath poor a nice cup of coffee and try again. Now isn’t that better…see I told you, you could figure it out. The lap track is really a great training device: giving you the time, distance, and calorie’s burnt to figure out what it is you have to do to be that great swimmer.

Mack’s Dry-n-Clear Ear Drying Aid: No more looking crazy as you walk around the gym shaking your head towards the ground in hopes to get all the water out. You know what I am talking about. Now when you get done swimming just walk to the locker room, once in the locker room tilt your head while dropping a little of the ear drying aid into each ear. Just a side note if you have an earache or a busted ear drum this will not feel good. You will get a nice burning sensation. . .take it from someone who knows.

TYR Large Dry-Off Sport Chamois: “Working at the Car wash. . .” this is the song I want to jump around and sing when I am at the pool. These chamois are AWESOME!!! No more wet towel balled up inside your bag getting all the other clothes nasty. Simply pull the towel out of the box, dry off, wring out, and stuff back in the box…then off you go for a nice cup of joe. Remember to change clothes I don’t think coffee shops are the same as a transition areas.

TriSwim Repair Conditioner: Say good-bye to smelly hair and hello to salon ready hair. Have you ever noticed that long after leaving the pool you still feel like you are in the pool? If the answer is yes…then this is the right conditioner for you. It smells great and leaves your hair soft and shiny all day long.

Aquia Hydrating Body Lotion: You know you feel dry and crusty after you leave the pool. I mean let’s face it when you smile you look like you got a face lift. Have no fear the body lotion is here. This lotion takes all the smell and dryness out. Your skin can breath again and your smile looks normal.

There is so much to learn and know when it comes to what works best for you and what you are looking for when you train. The best way to learn is to have fun, make a fool of yourself, run around shaking your head in the gym (even if you already got all the water out),learn new stuff and NEVER stop asking what works and how to use it.

Tri-Swim Shampoo,Conditioner, and Body Wash:  Have you ever wondered after a swim if you stunk? Wondered if other people around you could smell you when talking to them? Look no further. . .this is the aveda of the swimming products. It is made with all organic products and does wonders for the nappy hair we all get when finishing up our swim training. It also takes all the smell of chlorine out of our hair and off our body. Though I have tried other products, this by far has been one of my favorite products to use.

Til next time: Dream Big. Dream fast.

Shannon L Parrish