And what I'm saying is that yes, your point, while obvious in theory, is very difficult in practice. Even a nonswimmer can easily theorize the way you did, but incorrectly assume that it's as simple as that, when it's not. The number of technique pieces to put together a successful ankle band swim is huge - it's not as simple as 'just float then pull.'

But then again, if you haven't used an ankle band much, that's the exact answer I'd expect to hear. I've never heard anyone who started to use an ankle band state those easy assumptions you make about pace being no different and principle being easy. The typical response is like the ones above, where folks are shocked at how difficult this seemingly simple task is.

I also don't think you can completely miss the point of using a leg band. It autocorrects - again, you would know this if you used it a lot. You can't struggle and thrash your way across the pool as you might with fins or even a pull buoy. An ankle band is NEVER a swim crutch that makes your life easier. And if the whole point isn't to get faster at swimming with a band on by improving your pull/balance/catch, what the heck is the point?

If you wish to produce a decent body position, you should be spending your time on kick sets! As we are comparing times, what is your 100 f/s kick time?

Wow, calling me a non-swimmer based on a post. LOL! You really don't understand. And the band does not auto-correct anymore than any other drill does, and in my opinion, even less than most. You actually have to understand what is wrong and fix it, because you drown experimenting

It isn't theory, it is fact. Plain and simple. If you think you are a good swimmer tie your legs together. The truth will be apparent quickly.

Want to watch - NYSC, Deerpark NY, Tuesday and Thursday morning, 5 to 6 am. About 3000 m every morning. Ankle bad is about 300 m of it. I even flip turn while doing it (sometimes, depends on my mood).

My $0.02: The main point of the band is to work on turnover.

I'm actually not of the kick=worthless mentality and in fact am actively working on experimenting with 4 and 6 beat kicks right now.

4-6 beat kick is not necessary, an efficient kick is......

Unless I've missed a post, I don't believe that any of the fast swimmers use this drill.......just saying?

Well, I only decided to do it after reading an old ST post from Jordan Rapp, and I hear he's not too bad a swimmer/triathlete ....

Actually i dont think it is a matter of forward moyion despite what some websites say about timing and gaps in the pull.

Its Mostly about finding that magic balance point where chest balances legs. Im a male with tree trunk legs and loww body fat so its def possible for everyone. The hard part is holding that money position without screwing it up with your stroke.


I can go banded one arm at 3:00 per 100 on super slow one arm form drills so i doubt forward motion is the key to doing it right. The one arm drills were particularly helpful while banded.

4-6 beat kick or a swim band? Either way, I stand by my point.

My point is: you claim earlier in thread that you have limited time in the pool. If that's the case you would be better off spending time improving your kick with kick sets and using the band with a pull-buoy during pull sets. If you have all day available then perhaps using the band drills may be worthy.

OK - I have stats back from the pool.

My interval pace is typically about 1:25 for 100's in a 25 meter pool (SCM for future reference) on a 1:35 to 1:40
interval. I timed three 100s at similar effot with the band and finished in 1:48. 1:52 and 1:54. (not on a set interval, but about 10s rest)
That works out to a 1:51 avg vs 1:25 with no bands. About 30% slower.

I do pull sets on about the same interval (using a buoy) as straight free, so it is not the loss of kick that slows me down...it
is the body position / drag.
.