Pull buoys are placed between the legs of a swimmer to help promote an efficient body position by lifting the hips high in the water. When a swimmer’s hips are close to the surface they produce less drag and move more efficiently.

Many swimmers enjoy ‘pulling’ (using a pull buoy) as it gives them a break from kicking which uses substantial energy. Using a pull buoy also gives a swimmer an opportunity to work on water feel, which is the way they catch and pull through the water.

Other benefits of using a pull buoy include

Isolating the arms to work on muscular mechanics

Allows you to focus on technique

When combined with paddles it provides an intense arm workout.

When using a pull buoy, it’s important to be mindful of your body position. Remember to keep your core tucked in tight!  Efficient swimmers are able to fly through the water because they use their body as one seamless unit, from fingertips to toes. When we isolate parts of our system when using a pull buoy, it reduces the time we spend working on being more efficient in the water.

And one final tip, avoid ‘swinging’ your legs and aim to keep the hips rolling and not flicking out to the side.