Swimming board

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A standard EVA foam kickboard
A standard EVA foam kickboard

Swimming boards (often referred to as kickboards) are a flotation aid used to develop a swimmers kicking action. They can be used on all strokes but are primarily used on Freestyle, Backstroke and Breaststroke.


All swimmers of all ability use them whether it is to develop the kicking action of younger swimmers or to refine the kick of elite swimmers. They are also used to strengthen a swimmers legs.[1]

Contents

[edit] What are they made from?

Kickboards are usually made from EVA foam but some are also made HDPE so they last much longer. The EVA foam boards can break quite easily and become very worn after long periods of time.

[edit] Variations

There are some variations of kickboards from the traditional EVA foam board with 2 hand grips. Some of which can be used as a kickboard and a pull buoy. These are often oddly shaped so they can be used for both of the training aspects. [2]

[edit] Opinions

Some people claim that the use of kickboards does not benefit the swimmer in any way due to the swimmers hips been unable to move freely. This therefore does not replicate the true movement of your body when swimming and will not benefit the swimmer in any way.[3]

[edit] References

  1. ^ BBC Sport Academy | Swimming | Equipment | Swimming equipment guide
  2. ^ Hydro Techboard
  3. ^ Swimming: Pool Tools: Less Is More
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