For adults who swim regularly, whether training to compete or for general exercise and fitness, having the right swimming equipment can enhance your experience and performance in the water.

Whether you're a novice swimmer or a seasoned enthusiast, splashing out on some additional swimming equipment can help you make the most of your pool sessions and boost technique, stamina and strength. In this article, we will explore some of the must-have swimming equipment for adults who swim regularly.

Goggles: For Crystal Clear Vision Underwater

Well, we would start with goggles, wouldn’t we?! Good goggles are indispensable for both recreational and competitive swimmers. They protect your eyes from chlorine and other irritants in the water while providing clear vision underwater. Regular swimmers shouldn’t scrimp on this vital swimming bit of swimming kit; invest in quality goggles that fit comfortably and have an anti-fog coating. Tinted lenses can be useful for outdoor swims, reducing glare from the sun's reflection on the water. For lane swimming we like Speedo’s Unisex Futura Biofuse Flexiseal Dual Swimming Goggles at the more reasonable end of the market. At the upper end are Speedo’s swish Vue Mirrored Goggles which Speedo claim offer two-times the anti-fog properties of other goggles.

Swimwear: The Foundation of Comfort

A well-fitting swimsuit (or pair of shorts, trunks, Jammers for men) is the cornerstone of a comfortable swimming experience. For regular adult swimmers, swimwear should be a blend of durability, stretch, and support. Seek our swimwear allows freedom of movement while maintaining a snug fit to reduce drag. Choose between one-piece suits for more coverage or two-piece options for increased flexibility.

Swim Cap: Streamlined Protection

OK, so they’re not the most flattering attire, but a swim cap can serve several practical purposes. It keeps hair out of your face and eyes, reduces drag, and, in outdoor pools, provides protection from the sun's UV rays. Silicone or latex caps are popular choices due to their durability and streamlined fit, ensuring minimal resistance as you glide through the water.

Nose clip: Not essential but a game-changer for some

Nose clips, while not essential, can be a game-changer for some swimmers. They prevent water from entering nasal passages, reducing sinus infection risk and discomfort. This allows focus on strokes and breathing patterns. Also, nose clips minimise chlorine inhalation, promoting respiratory health. For technique-focused swimmers, they ensure consistent breathing, improving performance. Adding nose clips to your routine can enhance comfort, hygiene, and concentration. Trying one is the best way to determine if it’s for you.

Swim Fins: Boost Strength & Technique With These Training Aids

Swim fins are an excellent tool for enhancing leg strength and improving swimming technique. For regular adult swimmers, fins can provide an additional resistance element to enhance your workout, making your leg muscles work harder and promoting overall fitness. Fins also help you refine your kicking technique, which is crucial for efficient propulsion through the water.

Try a Kickboard for Targeted Leg Workouts

Kickboards are simple yet effective devices that aid in isolating your leg muscles during swim sessions. Regular swimmers can use kickboards to focus on building leg strength and improving kicking technique. By holding onto the kickboard while kicking, you can concentrate on the movement of your legs without worrying about your upper body's coordination.

Pull Buoys: Good For Developing Upper Body Strength

To balance out the lower body focus provided by kickboards, a pull buoy is an essential addition to your swimming equipment. This buoyant device is placed between your thighs, immobilising your legs and forcing you to rely solely on your upper body for propulsion. Regular swimmers can use pull buoys to strengthen their arms, shoulders, and back muscles while refining their arm stroke technique.

Paddles: For Building Upper Body Endurance In The Pool

Swimming paddles are advanced swimming tools that help build upper body strength, endurance, and overall swim technique. These flat, plastic or silicone devices are worn on the hands and increase water resistance, making your arm muscles work harder. When used regularly, paddles can lead to improved stroke efficiency and a more powerful pull through the water.

Fitness Trackers: Monitor Your Pool Progress With The Latest Tech

For tech-savvy adult swimmers, a waterproof fitness tracker can provide valuable insights into your swim sessions. These devices can track distance, lap times, stroke count, and even heart rate underwater. Monitoring your progress over time allows you to set goals and tailor your workouts for maximum efficiency.

Investing in high-quality swimming equipment not only boosts your performance but also contributes to your overall enjoyment of this rejuvenating and rewarding activity.

Boost Your Swimming Technique With Swim Coaching

Now, if you’ve geared up with the essentials mentioned in this article and want a bit of extra help to ensure you’re doing it justice in the pool, why not consider some coaching from our expert instructors? Adults looking to improve their swimming technique can join our swimming technique workshops at Notre Dame School on Thursday evenings.

For more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with our experienced team today!

Essential Equipment For Regular Swimmers