I’ve always been very envious of the swimmers (those I consider to be ‘proper swimmers’) who turn up pool-side with various items of swim paraphernalia.

Those big drawstring bags containing paddles, fins and pull-bouys. These are the swimmers who stride confidently to the side of the pool with an air of purpose and the knowledge that they are worlds apart from the ‘head up’ breaststrokers and leisurely swimmers.

Well now I am the proud owner of my own drawstring bag and it gives me a thousand times more pleasure than a designer handbag would (I am easily pleased!)

In my drawstring bag I have the following:

A kick-board which I am beginning to use more frequently (I have the laziest legs and can really feel the difference after using it).

A pull-bouy which has been great in allowing me to concentrate on my stroke (and it seems to make a fair few demands on my core muscles too).

Then there are the hand paddles which help to maximise my ‘catch’ under the water (I really feel it in my upper arms the day after).

I haven’t yet ventured to the shops to buy some fins as I am not entirely sure what to do with them (other than put them on my feet), or what purpose they serve, but maybe they should be next on my list.

I love my kit bag. It represents my little bit of peace and freedom that I enjoy when I go to the pool. I am usually very fortunate where I swim as I can often get the entire lane to myself and feel as if I can escape and almost lose myself under the water. It’s the most amazing feeling in the world and I love it!