5 Ways Swim Snorkels Improve Your Technique

5 Ways Swim Snorkels Improve Your Technique

Consider swim snorkels in your training routine.

There are many types of competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, designed to help you improve your swimming technique. Each one has a specific design that helps you target certain aspects of your swimming form so you can put them together and perform your best. Swim snorkels are no different, including the Finis snorkel. Regardless of which one you choose, it’s important to understand how these snorkels can improve your technique.

Improved Alignment

Proper alignment is incredibly important to your swimming technique. Any unnecessary movement, such as a side to side wiggle, is wasted energy that could be used to propel you forward. A swim snorkel can help you focus on proper alignment so you can swim more effectively.

Arm Strokes

A strong stroke is essential to propel you through the water faster and more efficiently. As you use swim snorkels as part of your training, you are able to focus more on what your arms are doing, rather than trying to breathe properly. This enhanced focus sets the foundation for a stronger arm stroke in the end.

Correct Your Balance

Lifting your head out of the water to breathe can have a negative impact on your training, raising the upper half of your body and lowering your legs. This lack of balance can slow down your swimming. Using a snorkel allows you to keep your head down so your body lies more balanced in the water.

An Even Kick

As you turn your head to breathe, you may inadvertently be kicking in an asymmetric patter, which won’t propel you through the water the way you need to increase your speed. The use of your Finis snorkel keeps your kicks even so you can swim more efficiently.

Core Rotation

Another area where competitive swimmers tend to struggle is with their core rotation. If you pay close attention, you’ll see your body tends to rotate with every turn of your head. Using a swim snorkel removes this component and allows you to focus more on your core rotation so you can train your body to stay straight as you move through the water.

Swim snorkels can be a valuable tool when it comes to your swim training. If you’re looking for a snorkel or other competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry everything you need to be a more effective swimmer.

Catalyst Stroke Paddles: A New Way to Train

Catalyst Stroke Paddles: A New Way to Train

Most competitive swimmers are already aware of the importance of using tools like swim paddles to train more effectively. In fact, this is just as important as finding the right competitive swimwear in Dallas. However, not all paddles are created the same. For instance, the Catalyst Stroke Paddles offer a unique way to use this swim training tool. Before you make your final choice, read on to learn more about why these paddles are different.

Train more effectively with Catalyst Stroke Paddles.
Catalyst Stroke Paddles offer great versatility.

An Adjustable Option

One of the key differences that makes Catalyst Stroke Paddles an excellent option for many swimmers is the fact they are fully adjustable. The string used to position the paddles on the hands can be moved into a vast number of positions, each offering a different type of resistance, useful for various aspects of training. This versatility makes the competitive swimming equipment a must-have, whether you are a competitive swimmer or swimming more for the fitness aspects.

A Number of Sizes

In addition to being fully adjustable to offer the precise training you require, these swim paddles are available in a number of sizes to accommodate each swimmer’s needs. The sizes are color-coded, allowing you to quickly and easily find a matching pair. Most swimmers can maximize the benefits of this type of swim training gear by purchasing two sizes so they can be switched out and offer varying resistance to meet different needs.

The Competitive Advantage

Catalyst Stroke Paddles help swimmers in a number of ways so they can build on their competitive advantage. Some of the benefits of using this competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, includes building upper body strength and improving the overall swim technique. Because you can adjust these paddles and choose the perfect size for you, you can rest assured you will get the full benefit each time you use them. Every swim is a different experience with the varied resistance these paddles can provide.

Competitive swimmers need to constantly find training tools they can use to increase strength and improve their overall swimming technique. This equipment is constantly changing, helping you keep up with the rigors of training and get the performance improvements you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for the right competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry everything you need to become a more effective swimmer.

The Best Way to Recover from a Swim Meet

The Best Way to Recover from a Swim Meet

You work hard to make sure you can swim well and win races at your meets. However, this isn’t the only thing you should focus on. What happens after the race? Many swimmers invest in plenty of competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, to prepare for the meets, but understanding the basics behind swimming recovery between races is critical to ensure your continued success. After all, if you don’t give your body ample time to recover, you won’t be able to maintain the same level of performance for future races.

Warm Down

Are your swimming recovery times sufficient?
How are your swimming recovery times?

Most people have heard about warming up before the races, but it’s just as important to your swimming recovery time to warm down after your races. Some gentle stretches and other light exercises should be plenty to allow your muscles to wind down so you can rest easier and can reduce the amount of soreness you experience the following day.

Eat Right

Another area many competitive swimmers focus on before the meet is eating a nutritious meal. While it’s important not to overeat, eating the right foods can help give you the boost you need to do your best. After your meet is over, however, you should also eat a nutritious meal to help resupply your body with the necessary nutrients for proper swimming recovery between races. It’s also critical to drink plenty of water to make sure your body is properly hydrated.

Get Plenty of Rest

There’s no harm in going to bed early the day of your meet. Your body needs the rest in order to recuperate, giving you the energy you need to get through the next day and your body the energy it needs for muscle rejuvenation and more. If needed, don’t be ashamed of taking a nap the following day either, especially if you get home from your meet too late to go to bed early.

Do a Light Swim the Next Day

You may not feel like jumping right back in the water, but taking a light swim session the day after your meet can be beneficial to your swimming recovery time. This can reduce the amount of stiffness you experience. Don’t do anything strenuous or intense, but a few laps can be extremely beneficial.

If you’re looking for the best competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, to help you perform your best, contact us. We carry everything you need to be successful before and after your races.

Ear Protection for Competitive Swimmers

Ear Protection for Competitive Swimmers

One of the biggest problems individuals have when it comes to competitive swimming is keeping the water out of the ears so they can stay comfortable. This means having the right competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX. One of the best ways to combat this problem is using earplugs for swimmers. This equipment effectively keeps water out of your ears so you can swim without concern over developing swimmer’s ear.

Learn how to choose the right earplugs for swimmers.
Which are the right earplugs for swimmers?

Types of Earplugs

There are several types of earplugs. Which ones are the best earplugs for swimmers depends on your own personal preferences, as long as they’re rated for swimming. Flanged earplugs offer a universal fit using multiple flanges to block the water out of the ears. These are often the least expensive option but may not fit as well for everyone. Ergonomic earplugs fit securely in the ears and lie flat against the ear canal to reduce resistance. Finally, moldable earplugs offer the best customized fit so you don’t have to worry about water entering the ears.

Various Materials

In addition to the type of earplug, you will also need to be concerned about what material they are made from. Most earplugs for swimmers are latex-free so those who suffer from a latex allergy shouldn’t have a problem finding the right earplugs for them. However, be sure to read the descriptions carefully because some of them do contain latex. For the most part, earplugs are made from a soft silicone material because it is hypoallergenic and can easily be molded and reused. If you’re a competitive swimmer, you want to choose the best earplugs for swimmers that are reusable so you don’t have to keep buying them repeatedly.

Swimmers ear can be one of the biggest challenges for swimmers. While many swimmers are mostly unaffected by getting water in their ears, others are much more susceptible to problems caused by letting water in the ears. The good news is earplugs don’t often affect your ability to move through the water and don’t create more drag. This means you can easily keep the water out of your ears without negatively impacting your swimming performance.

If you’re looking for the best earplugs for swimmers or other competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry a vast number of earplugs for swimmers so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Are You Caring for Your Swim Gear Properly?

Are You Caring for Your Swim Gear Properly?

It’s no surprise competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, is costly, which means it’s critical to make sure you take care of it properly to ensure you don’t have to replace it too quickly. Each piece of equipment requires careful care to keep it in good condition for longer. Not only will you save yourself money in the long run, but it will keep the gear looking great and you performing your best for as long as possible.

Learn how to care for your competitive swim equipment.
Caring for your competitive swim equipment is essential.

Custom Swim Caps

Once you are done swimming, rinse your custom swim caps carefully in clean water, not the pool. Once the chlorine and other chemicals have been rinsed away, carefully dry it with a soft towel. Hang the cap up to allow it to finish air drying. If you can’t do this right away, do it as soon as you get home from your practice or meet. If you will be storing the swim cap for any period of time, consider sprinkling baby powder inside.

Swimming Goggles

Whether you are using Speedo swimming goggles or another brand, you will need to take good care of them so they will continue to provide the protection and coverage you need without negatively impacting your visibility. Like your swim cap, you will need to rinse them thoroughly with clear, cool water. Keep them out of the sun to prevent melting. Instead, lay them flat in a cool place to dry fully. Never put them away wet if you can avoid it because this will cause mold and mildew problems, as well as break down the rubber and plastic.

Swimsuit

One of the most important pieces of competitive swim equipment you will own is your competitive swimwear. Like all your other gear, it’s essential to rinse your swimwear out once you get out of the pool and get dressed again. This will remove the chlorine and other residue that can break down the swimsuit materials. When you do wash your swimwear, wash it in cool water and preferably by hand. Lay it flat to dry because heat can damage the materials and change the way it fits.

When it comes to caring for your swim gear, you can rest assured your swimming gear will last longer so you won’t have to make expensive replacements as often. This will also ensure you perform your best in the pool.

If you’re looking for the best competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We provide a vast array of products designed with swimmers in mind.

The Ultimate Routine for Race Day

The Ultimate Routine for Race Day

As race day approaches, it’s important to make sure you do what you can to prepare yourself to perform your best. For most swimmers, developing a set routine for your race day can help you get the most out of every meet. In addition to packing your Speedo backpack with your racing swimsuits and other competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, there are a few things you should do to ensure you are fully prepared for your event.

Keep all your gear in one place with a Speedo backpack.
The Speedo backpack keeps all your gear in one place.

Check Your Gear

Packing the night before your race is beneficial to avoid forgetting something important when packing at the last moment. Make sure you have everything you need in your Speedo backpack, ready to grab and go when it’s time to leave for your race. You need to make sure you have at least two racing swimsuits, as well as all of the other competitive swim equipment you need to perform your best, such as a couple of swim caps, swim goggles and more. Double check your bag before you leave.

Get the Right Amount of Sleep

Although it’s important to get the right amount of sleep at all times, it’s even more essential the night before your big meet. It should always be part of your routine to get to bed at a reasonable hour so you feel well rested when you get up in the morning. However, it is beneficial to get your sleep on schedule weeks before your event so you can be sure you are well rested.

Stick to Your Schedule

Your coach works closely with you to put together an effective training schedule to ensure you are properly prepared for your next race. Once that schedule is put into place, be sure you stick to it so you can see the results you’re looking for. If you feel any aspect of your schedule isn’t working, talk to your coach about making adjustments.

Eat Well

There are certain foods that are recommended as you prepare in the weeks leading up to your big race day. Fruits are essential, as are energy foods, such as protein and energy bars. Low-fat yogurt and wholegrain breads and cereals can also help you swim your best. These are all great snacks to also pack in your Speedo backpack for your race day.

If you’re looking for the best competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry everything you need to be the best swimmer you can be.

Kickboards Improve Your Swimming Technique

Kickboards Improve Your Swimming Technique

There are many tools you can use to help improve your swimming techniques. While most people think of using kickboards as a way to teach young children to swim, they are also one of the most important competitive swimming products you can use to swim even better. The best swimming kickboards can be an effective tool in strengthening your leg muscles and training in the proper kick technique to get you the most power. Choosing the right one for your purpose is important to get the results you’re looking for.

Improve your technique with the best swimming kickboards.
The best swimming kickboards can help you swim better.

Traditional Kickboards

When you shop for competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, you will likely find most of the kickboards you see are in the traditional style. These boards are more rigid than those for children and are typically thicker and highly buoyant. Traditional kickboards are usually rectangular in shape with a rounded front. You will typically see a lot of these boards around the pool because they are so affordable and commonly used. It’s important to use them sparingly, however, because shoulder pain can occur with prolonged use.

Ergonomic and Streamlined Kickboards

There is an alternative to traditional kickboards. These kickboards serve much the same purpose as traditional kickboards, but they cause less strain on the shoulders so they can easily be used for longer periods of time. For instance, these boards are typically made from lighter-weight foam and feature a more triangular shape for more comfortable grip. This means less resistance as they move through the water. They may also have cut-out handles to help with the grip.

Kickboard/Pull-Buoy Combos

There are many kinds of competitive swimming products you will need to use in your training. This can be expensive, but when you purchase something like a kickboard/pull-buoy combination, you can purchase one piece of equipment with multiple uses. This equipment can be used as a traditional kickboard held in front of you or it can be held between your legs as a pull buoy to help you work on your upper body and shoulder muscles.

Finding the right competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, can be important to improve your technique and help you become a better swimmer. It’s important to choose the best swimming kickboards to ensure the job is done right.

If you’re looking for the best competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry all the competitive swimming products you need to become a more effective swimmer.

4 Ways to Boost Your Swim Training in 2108

4 Ways to Boost Your Swim Training in 2108

As we enter a  new year, many people are looking for ways to make improvements in their lives. While most of these changes relate to life in general, many swimmers focus on how they can improve for the upcoming year. Whether that’s buying new competitive swimwear in Dallas, TX, or even new competitive swim equipment, there are also ways you can improve your swimming techniques as well. The following four ideas can help you improve your swimming this year.

Stay organized with the right competitive swim equipment.
The right competitive swim equipment can help you stay organized.

Simplify Your Bigger Issues

Every swimmer is aware of swimming techniques they could improve upon. Work with your coach to determine where your weak spots are and the best ways to improve upon them. For instance, if you have a weak kick, you may want to spend more time working with a kickboard this year. Your coach will be able to help you simplify the problem and focus on your practice so you can strengthen those weaknesses.

Focus on Team Bonding

Even if you don’t swim relay races, it’s important to feel a connection with the rest of your team. Talk to your coach about increasing the number of bonding experiences you partake in. It’s important to spend time away from the pool as well. This can include excursions as a group or even team building exercises. The stronger your team bond is, the more likely you will be able to work better together, cheering each other on to victory.

Be Positive

It can be easy to fall into negative thinking, especially if you’ve been struggling to perform well. However, thinking negatively can often impact your ability to swim well, even on a subconscious level. Instead, make it your goal to think positively whenever you spend time in the pool, whether at practice or at your meets. When you visualize a positive outcome, you are more likely to perform better.

Get Organized

It can be difficult to do well if you are constantly forgetting important pieces of competitive swim equipment or your competitive swimwear for practice or meets. The best way to combat this issue is to get more organized. If you don’t already have one, consider buying a swim backpack and keeping most of your items in there when you aren’t at the pool. This will help reduce the things you may otherwise forget if you pack up right before you leave.

Swimmers always have room for improvement. The beginning of a new year is a great time to make resolutions that will positively impact your overall performance and help you become a better swimmer in 2018.

If you’re looking for the best competitive swimwear and competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We can provide everything you need to improve on your swimming techniques.

Speedo Push Plate Is Great for Strength Training

Speedo Push Plate Is Great for Strength Training

Enhance your workout with the Speedo push plate.
The Speedo push plate enhances your workout.

Water is naturally resistant, but there are benefits to adding tools that increase that resistance and thus improve the benefits of your workout. As you look at the available competitive swim equipment, you may want to consider the Speedo push plate. This piece of equipment is designed to increase the amount of resistance you feel as you perform certain exercises, increasing their effectiveness.

Benefits of Resistance Training

As you consider various competitive swimwear products, you will find resistance training can provide many benefits, making it a top priority. The buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints, allowing for less pain as you exercise and afterward. This also minimizes the risk of injury and increases muscle tone more quickly. You will also burn less energy, allowing you to work out longer. There is also less risk of overheating, which is great for those workouts on hot, summer days.

Ideal for All Types of Workouts

Whether you are doing a light workout at the surface of the water or you’re in it for the long haul with deep water exercises, the Speedo push plate can be the ideal piece of equipment to help you make the most out of your workouts. This push plate features a hydrodynamic design and centered stability. This allows for great versatility in its use and isolates specific muscle groups to make the most out of any workout. Swimmers will be able to increase the impact of their workouts, helping them become better, stronger swimmers.

Having the right competitive swim equipment is essential if you want to be able to swim your best. One of the best ways to enhance your workout in the water is by increasing the amount of resistance. While there are plenty of pieces of equipment that can produce these results, the Speedo push plate is one of the most innovative competitive swimwear products available on the market. With the use of this tool, you will be able to build specific muscle groups, helping you become a much more effective swimmer.

If you’re in the market for new competitive swim equipment in Dallas, TX, contact us. We carry all the latest products so you can work toward becoming a better swimmer.