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Discussion: Swim paddles
Subject: Swim paddles By: Robby G. Written on: 2006-06-20 02:22:30 Message: I just bought a pair of swim paddles, but realized I don't know that much about how to use them. Is the only benefit the added shoulder strength? Should I be using them all the time, or maybe just every other workout? I can't find any discussion about them online, just that they're a good idea. Thanks for the feedback!
Subject: RE: Swim paddles By: Tim O. Written on: 2006-06-20 08:21:53 Message: Robby, you ned to make sure you got the correct size or you may not be doing much good. I was told that you should use paddles for at most 15% of your practice time. I was also told that they help with creating a full complete stroke from entry to recovery, not necessafilry for building shoulder strength. I lift weights for building sholder strenght. I do use the paddles once a week and focus on a full complete stroke with them. One instructor told me to think all the time of touching the thumb to the thigh to insure you are completing the stroke and not cutting it short. Good luck with the paddles. Also think about using a pull buoy as this gets your hips up high and lets you focus on extendingyour hands out far for entry and focus on good follow through. However, like the paddles only 15% of your practice should be done with them.
Subject: RE: Swim paddles By: D L. Written on: 2006-06-20 18:23:26 Message: use the paddles to build a balanced stroke and to work on breath control
Subject: RE: Swim paddles By: Ronald F. Written on: 2006-06-20 19:24:07 Message: Rob, Use the padles sparingly for stroke improvement your shoulder will get enough of a workout without them. The paddles will help you to see and feel if you are letting water slide off of them either to the sides or off of the bottom ( finger tip end) The plane of the paddle ( and your hand) should be vertical from as soon as posible when you start your stroke all the way through until just before it leaves the water. It should also be square with your body through the entire pull so that water does not slide off of the sides. Have fun with your new toys, Ron
Subject: RE: Swim paddles By: Don N. Written on: 2006-06-21 01:27:47 Message: Thanks for the help! I myself was also wondering the benefits and how and when to use the hand paddles when I first got them. Now, I make sure to use them at least once a week swimming in my technique session's, along with using my pull buoy and a kick board. And right away, my 400 meter times dropped from about 12min to 9:15, in only 3 weeks! I know it's not FAST but hey it's an improvement and that's all that matters to me.
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