Quick Dip: Why Should I Bring the Right Kit to Every Session?

A short read for the car journey

Category: Habits | Read time: Under 2 minutes

Your coach chooses equipment to help you practise particular swimming skills. Bringing your squad’s kit means you are ready when the set calls for it.

A kickboard lets you concentrate on your kick without using your usual arm stroke.

Fins are an important part of your kit. They help you practise underwater kicking and certain drills. The extra propulsion helps you keep moving while you concentrate on the movement your coach wants you to learn.

A pull buoy supports your legs while you focus on your pulling action. Its size matters: too much buoyancy can lift your hips and legs too high, moving your body away from its natural, balanced position in the water.

At Bluefins, we recommend a small pull buoy. For the stacked-ring type, our recommendation is three rings for swimmers up to age 16. Sizes and buoyancy vary between models, so the important check is whether it supports your legs without lifting them too high.

Check inside your bag before leaving. Use your squad’s kit list and make sure both fins are packed. Check your hat and goggles too, then fill your water bottle. Keep the equipment together so an item left drying at home is easy to spot.

If something is missing or broken, tell your coach before it is needed. They can arrange an alternative where possible. Ask before borrowing another swimmer’s kit.

After training, check your lane end and take everything home. Naming your equipment helps prevent mix-ups.

Ask your coach: Is my pull buoy the correct size for me?

Created by Basingstoke Bluefins Coaching Team