Abstract: An improved paddle assembly and flotation device for use by a swimmer to assist in propelling the swimmer through the water. The paddle assembly is of the type which has a central float and a pair of paddles supported by a rod extending outwardly from the float. The improvement of the present invention comprises a hollow, rigid thermoplastic ball having two openings and a hollow tube passed through the two openings and affixed to the openings in a watertight manner. Then, a rigid tube extends through the hollow tube, and the rigid tube extends outwardly and is affixed to a pair of paddles at each end of the rigid tube. Preferably, there are two or more handles affixed between the thermoplastic ball and the paddles.