Abstract: Apparatus for training a race swimmer to start a race include a first support assembly and a first hurdle member adapted to be held by the first support assembly above the water in a swimming pool, to be removed from the first support assembly by the force of a swimmer impacting the first hurdle member and to, thereafter, be positioned to be held by the first support assembly. The present apparatus preferably are portable and very flexible so as to provide a very effective training apparatus for swimmers. In addition, a starting block apparatus includes a portable base member, an adjustment assembly and a platform member which is adapted to be adjusted to vary the height of the platform member above the deck of a swimming pool and/or the angle of the platform assembly relative to the deck, as desired.