Anyone ever use a swim parachute in training? Are they effective (presumably to build strength/speed) and if so, which one(s) work well?
What is your background? Current ability?
I’m 51. 1.2 miles swim time (races) is +/- :32:00. 1:27 CSS / 100 yds
Not blistering but AG FOP
I use one occasionally. I was shocked at how much drag a small parachute creates. Give it a shot!
For you, a waste of time IMO. I don’t think there is a lot of benefit unless you are looking for the really marginal gains. Even then, I see parachutes as more of a sprinters tool than a triathletes.
Google “real coaching” podcast and look at the swim myth busting episode.
Joel filliol recommends them instead of band. Also you can just use a rope with sponges or a rope with an old t-shirt.
Never used them because we have 7-8 in LC and 5-6 in Sc lanes…that would be a total mess…
Cheers,
Iirc it creates a drag situation but does not affect body position like band does.
Like I say never used it but he likes it for his squad.
Maurice,
Using one for a couple of years now. With this device I finally found the elusive catch and now able to hold the engagement. I don’t have a great amount of time to devote to swimming, the workouts being 2000-2500. Using this is not unlike hill repeats in running, and based on results seems to be a pretty efficient use of time.
I swim in a 25y pool.
50 with chute + pull buoy
50 with chute without buoy and with kick
50 without chute + pull buoy
50 without chute, ankles together
50 without chute and kick
Typically go 1500 with these sets trying to maintain high turnover for each interval
From there I move to ladders and 25-50 intervals, all without the chute
Pretty wasted when it is over, but progress continues to be made. 12 inch stretch cordz (black)
I race sprint and oly. 66 yo MD in private family medicine with 60-65 hours a week in the office.
I use one from time to time because I find myself in pools that are around 15m most of the time and it adds some variety. I’m no expert but I’ve found that the parachute really helps working on balance in the water. Since I’m primarily using it to add strokes per length due to small pools, it slows me down to the point that I notice the effects of very small changes in swimming position.
Google “real coaching” podcast and look at the swim myth busting episode.
Joel filliol recommends them instead of band. Also you can just use a rope with sponges or a rope with an old t-shirt.
Never used them because we have 7-8 in LC and 5-6 in Sc lanes…that would be a total mess…
Cheers,
My coach uses a gallon milk jug.
Probably just as effective as running with a pair of 5kg dumbbells in hand.
Anyone ever use a swim parachute in training? Are they effective (presumably to build strength/speed) and if so, which one(s) work well?
I have only used once and couldn’t believe how incredibly challenging it made swimming. It was so hard, I can’t imagine it doing anything but helping your swim. If anything for the mental aspect once you remove it to feel how much faster you can go.
For you, a waste of time IMO. I don’t think there is a lot of benefit unless you are looking for the really marginal gains. Even then, I see parachutes as more of a sprinters tool than a triathletes.
I don’t get it, either…but, I’m far from being a “swimmer”.
I wonder how people would react to someone suggesting towing a parachute behind their bike…you know…to “build strength and stamina”. 
Thanks, y’all. I guess I see it as an alternative to lifting weights - only more specific to the actual muscles under strain. Assuming my form is ideal, it would build specific strength which is always good.
Anyone ever use a swim parachute in training? Are they effective (presumably to build strength/speed) and if so, which one(s) work well?
We used to swim with a 5 gallon bucket tied around waist. I couldn’t tell you how effective it was, just how much it sucked.
I have used one in the past and felt it was quite effective. In fact, I’m going back to mine. I agree withe the poster that says it’s moree effective than the band.
I swim a lot with the finis 4-pocket drag suit (finis ultimate drag suit), and I’ve been looking into getting one of the small parachutes, and starting out using it sparingly. I’ve been curious about one for a long time as well.