How to use a snorkel to improve your swimming

When someone mentions a snorkel, most people immediately imagine a big snorkel attached to an oxygen tank as someone explores the deep sea.

While this picture isn’t far off, people can use snorkels for a number of reasons. It can be used during scuba diving to keep your head underwater for as long as possible. However, it is also used recreationally and for training in swimming or other water sports.

Snorkels are used by swimmers to improve breathing technique, stroke technique, and endurance. By using a snorkel, swimmers can focus on their technique and stability in the water. It can improve breath control, especially for freestyle.

How to use the snorkel?

For practice, you do not need a large snorkel. A front-facing snorkel is ideal for swimming training. Do not buy a side-facing snorkel for practice,as this will affect your stroke and alignment.

1. First, make sure you have a good-quality snorkel that fits comfortably and securely.
2. Adjust the straps of your mask so that it fits snugly and comfortably on your face.
3. Practice breathing through the snorkel while bubbling underwater. Dunk your head underneath the water, and breathe in through your mouth. Focus on taking long, slow breaths and exhaling through your nose.
4. Once you feel comfortable breathing through the snorkel, try swimming laps while wearing it. You may need to adjust your stroke slightly to accommodate the snorkel.
5. When using the snorkel, make sure you empty any water that has seeped into the tube, so that you don’t choke.
6. As you get more comfortable with the snorkel, try swimming longer distances and practicing different freestyle drills.

Finis Freestyle snorkel

When you are buying snorkels you need not buy the goggles along with them. The swim training goggles are very different from the goggles used for training. Some snorkels are meant to be used with goggles, but this is not necessary.

PROS

• Can be worn in conjunction with swim cap or goggles. Increases aerobic capacity
• Stays in place for all competitive strokes, including flip turns
• Bent style forces good technique and streamline head position

CONS

• Newer swimmers might easily choke while using the snorkel, as the snorkel is not too high above the water’s surface while attached to your head

Benefits of using a snorkel for training

Using a snorkel can be a useful tool for maximizing your swim training in a number of ways, especially if you are looking to gain body and breath control.

Improved breathing technique

By using a snorkel, you can focus on proper breathing techniques without having to turn your head to take a breath for swimming. Turning your head while swimming uses more energy, and this can make your stroke and workout sloppy. However, using a snorkel, you can gain breath control while maintaining speed and stroke. This can help you develop stronger, more efficient lungs and improve your overall endurance.

Enhanced body position

Using a snorkel can help you maintain a better body position in the water, as you won’t have to lift your head to take a breath. You will be able to focus on keeping your head in a straight, and steady position, which is incredibly important for good streamline. It will help you focus on keeping your upper half in a position that supports your stroke.

Improved stroke technique

When you do not turn your head to breathe, you can improve other parts of your stroke. This includes your entry, your pull, and the use of power in different parts of your arm. When you improve on these while using the snorkel, it will become automatic while swimming without it.

Increased endurance

Breathing to the side takes up extra energy and can sometimes make swimmers feel like they are struggling for air. For longer distance sets, a snorkel can help you build endurance and stamina. You can focus on maximizing your lung capacity as well as technique during such events.

Enhanced mental focus

Using a snorkel will force you to pay attention to your stroke, instead of speed. You will have to work with the water, instead of against it as many inexperienced sprinters do. A snorkel will help you realize where your stroke is flawed and where you need to focus.

Remember to always use a snorkel safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also a good idea to have a trained lifeguard or swimming instructor present when practicing with a snorkel. If attached incorrectly, it is very easy to choke on the water.

5 common swim drills using a snorkel

1. Streamline freestyle kick
2. Practice pull using hand-paddles and a pull-buoy
3. Fingertip-drag drill
4. Single-arm drill
5. Full freestyle stroke

Snorkels can always be used with other equipment as they are very versatile. However, it is recommended that you use them mostly for freestyle, as the other strokes will end up with you choking on the water unless you practice isolated drills.

Remember to always use a snorkel safely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also a good idea to have a trained swimming instructor present when practicing with a snorkel.

How to take care of your snorkel?

Rinse the snorkel thoroughly after each use: Use fresh water to rinse the inside and outside of the snorkel, as well as the mouthpiece. Store the snorkel in a cool, dry place. You can keep it inside the mesh bag that you are using to carry the snorkel. Look for any cracks, leaks, or other damage to the snorkel. If you notice any issues, replace the snorkel. If your snorkel starts to build mould, or the silicone rips, it will become a health hazard to use the snorkel.