Frequently asked questions

The water flow (current speed) is fully adjustable using the dial on the battery box. It ranges continuously from off (0) to full power (11). Beginners or those doing lighter workouts can swim at a lower setting or position themselves further back from the unit. The further back you swim (for example, around 3 metres back compared to 60–90 cm from the unit), the slower, wider and smoother the current becomes. Swimming further back creates a broader, deeper flow that’s more forgiving and easier to stay within. For beginner swimmers, it can actually help to turn the speed up slightly and swim further back. This makes it easier to remain centred in the current, even if your stroke isn’t perfectly straight or consistent. Swimming further back also allows you to naturally adjust your pace — move closer to the unit to increase speed, or drift further away to slow down. Advanced swimmers can turn the unit up to maximum power. The Performance and Sport models deliver top speeds equivalent to approximately 1:20 and 1:45 per 100 metres respectively, offering a strong race-pace training experience. Experienced swimmers will recognise that a 1:20 per 100 metres pace is challenging to sustain. Many swimmers can reach that speed for a short effort but find it difficult to maintain over longer distances. To get a feel for this pace, try timing yourself over 100 metres in a standard 25 metre pool. For optimal performance, ensure the top of Slipstream’s outlet grill sits at the pool’s waterline. Adjust the rail height if needed — correct alignment provides the smoothest, most consistent flow.

Almost any swim or water workout can be done with Slipstream. Much like a treadmill or exercise bike, it suits beginners looking to improve their fitness just as well as strong swimmers, coaches refining stroke technique, or even an IRONMAN athlete preparing for the 3.8 km swim leg. You can swim continuously against the current for endurance training or complete structured sessions with intervals and sprint efforts. For example, a beginner session might include a 5-minute warm-up, followed by 5 × 1-minute swims with 1-minute rest between each, finishing with a gentle cool-down. Slipstream isn’t just for freestyle. You can swim breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke to engage different muscle groups and add variety to your sessions. Triathletes often use Slipstream to build endurance and simulate open-water conditions in a controlled environment. Swim coaches use it to improve stroke mechanics — and when paired with an underwater mirror accessory (sold separately), swimmers can watch and correct their technique in real time. Beyond lap swimming, Slipstream is excellent for aquatic fitness. Walk or jog against the current for low-impact cardio, or use kickboards, water weights, resistance belts or other aquatic equipment to increase the challenge. It’s also popular for family fun and swim lessons. Kids can bodyboard in a gentle current or learn to swim at a lower speed in a safe, controlled setting. In short, Slipstream can be incorporated into virtually any swim routine — from endurance sets and stroke drills to recovery sessions and water aerobics. We recommend mixing strokes and varying intervals to keep workouts engaging and effective.