Swim Stroke Analysis
Help your swimmer get more from their stroke. Athletes can send videos of themselves to The Athlete Village and experienced coaches will provide feedback. The Athlete Village uses DartFish, the same technology used by members of the USA Swimming Olympic and national swim teams. Packages range from $49.99 for an individual stroke analysis to $79.99 for a full-pool analysis to $129.99 for a comprehensive open water swimming analysis. The analysis includes a DVD on the tactics and techniques of world-class open water swimmers. (www.theathletevillage.com)
Portable Kayaks
Open water swimmers often use escorts as a safety measure during training and racing. Used by the most experienced open water swimming coaches and athletes, portable boats from Pakboats are perfect for athletes who train in lakes and rivers. The lightweight aluminum frames are easy to assemble and can be transported on planes and cars. Try the 12-foot Puffin Sacco (20 pounds) for $890. (www.pakboats.com/)
Cobra offers small kayaks specifically designed for open water swimmers who train in the ocean. The Cobra models, priced around $1,000, contain various pockets for whistles, glow sticks, gel packs, goggles and cup holders, and provide the ultimate in comfort and convenience for both the escort kayaker and open water swimmer. Try the 34-pound Cobra Escape starting at $450. (www.cobrakayaks.com)
Swimming Tour
Swim Trek, the world's leading open water swimming tour provider, offers three- to seven-day open-water swimming tours from Cabo San Lucas and the Caribbean Sea to the Mediterranean Sea and Northern Europe. The tours cater to swimmers of various ages, speeds and abilities. Island hopping and lake swimming are wonderful with similarly-minded athletes who enjoy beautiful venues with great water quality. SwimTrek also provides week-long training tours for those swimmers specifically interested in gaining an inside edge from experienced coaches or focusing on a particular marathon swim. Prices range from $560 to $1,950 depending on the location. The tours are memorable, enjoyable and educational held in idyllic locations around the world. (www.swimtrek.com)
Stocking Stuffers for Swimmers
- Swimsuit cleaners that gently remove chlorine
- Anti-fog solutions for goggles
- Hand paddles
- A 2nd set of goggles
Tis the season to be jolly...and to be training hard.