Article

swimming aids

Guidance on approved swimming aids

Thursday 3 April, 2025

1. Flotation Aids

These aids help swimmers stay afloat and build confidence in the water.

Kickboard – A flat, buoyant board used to support the upper body while focusing on kicking technique.

 

Permitted within any of our sessions (casual or lane swimming)

Pull Buoy – A foam float placed between the legs to help swimmers focus on arm movements while maintaining body position.

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double or single lane availability)

Noodle (Foam Woggle) – A flexible, buoyant foam stick that provides support for swimming practice, exercises, or play.

 

Permitted within our casual swim sessions (with double lane availability)

Swim Belt – A belt with attached floats that offers additional buoyancy while learning to swim.

 

Permitted within our casual swim sessions (with double lane availability)

Buoyancy Vest – A lightweight vest that provides support in the water while allowing arm movement.

 

Permitted within our casual swim sessions (with double lane availability)

Arm Bands (Floaties) – Inflatable bands worn on the upper arms to assist beginners in staying afloat.

 

Permitted within our casual swim sessions (with double lane availability)

2. Technique and Training Aids

These aids help swimmers improve their strokes, breathing, and efficiency in the water.

Training Fins – Worn on the feet to enhance kick strength, technique, and speed. Flippers and long bladed fins are not permitted

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double lane availability)

Hand Paddles – Flat paddles worn on the hands to increase resistance and improve stroke technique.  Larger than your hand paddles aren’t permitted

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double lane availability)

Swimming Snorkel – A centre-mounted snorkel that allows swimmers to focus on their stroke without needing to turn their head for breathing.

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double or single lane availability)

Finger Paddles – Smaller versions of hand paddles designed to improve finger positioning and stroke precision.

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double lane availability)

3. Resistance and Strength Training Aids

These aids add resistance to enhance muscle strength and endurance.

Aqua Dumbbells – Foam or plastic weights used for strength training in water exercises.

 

Permitted within our casual swim sessions (with double lane availability)

Drag Shorts – Special training gear that increases water resistance to build endurance and strength.

 

Permitted within any of our lane swimming sessions (with double or single lane availability)

4. Therapeutic and Rehabilitation Aids

Used for low-impact exercise, recovery, and rehabilitation.

 

Water Walking Shoes – Specialised footwear designed for use in aquatic environments. Typically made from neoprene and are of a slip on nature.  They are lightweight, slip-resistant shoes that provide stability and support during water-based therapy. Permitted within any of our sessions (casual or lane swimming)

 

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