Using a pull buoy: helpful or damaging to technique??
Former Member
hello! anybody knows wether using a pull buoy is helpful or damaging to technique??
I've read around the web that it might be actually bad to your technique as isolating the arm motion is unnatural and even though it can be a good as a workout does not help that much in terms of technique
So i don't know if i should keep using a pull buoy on some of my workouts, what do you think?
Former Member
WIth my swim team practices, I alternate from using one to not using a pull buoy. I think it does wonders for swimmers if it is used properly, but it can absolutely do a lot of damage if used incorrectly (just like anything else). So, my suggestion is that if you know how to use a pull buoy the right way; go for it. If not, then stay away.
Former Member
The answer to your question is: Yes. :D
The pull buoy was a great aid in straightening out my freestyle stroke. I used to swim like a snake, but I couldn't really tell how uneven my stroke was unless I isolated it using the buoy. I'm still working on doing the same with backstroke. My backstroke has improved immensely in the past 6 months, but there is still a long way to go there. Swimming backstroke with a buoy really isolates the arms and helps demonstrate the effects of subtle changes to the pull, catch, and shoulder roll.
Of course pull buoys can also be used as a crutch, which is counterproductive. In general I hate days with lots of long pulling because I find it boring. When I pull I like to keep it short, 200 or less, use paddles, and try to really work hard and go faster than normal. OR - sometimes I use it as a drill opportunity, doing alternate one-arm drills, catch-up, or fist drill.
Former Member
Even better than a pull buoy...a big rubberband. Put it around your ankles and swim. It takes a lot more effort. It will help improve your balance, increase awareness of your line and positioning in the water. Give it a try, it is also fun!
-Coach Ty
