An exercise apparatus and method for training swimmers. The device is a guide (10) of substantially rigid shape. It is used to teach and condition the swimmer's upper body. As a swimmer traces the perimeter of the guide with his arm in a manner as if he were swimming, the swimming techniques of high elbow catch and high elbow stroke path are executed. The device will enable a swimmer to train form in a template like manner. It can also be combined with resistive means to train strength at the same time as training form.