Paddle Recommendations

RE: Paddle Recommendations

Former Member — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 05:18:18 GMT

Here's a couple tips that will help you train with paddles more effectively. !) Try training without an over-the-water recovery. Put a snorkel on and examine the form you're trying to mimic and repeat it slow enough to encourage a ingrained habit. 2) Try a power-phase drill where you only move through the power-phase and back again (no over-water recovery). By moving super slow the proper position is encouraged. I think most drills that try to cure underwater pulling patterns are done too fast to be effective. Good Luck, Coach T.

RE: Paddle Recommendations

aztimm — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 04:53:30 GMT

I'd have to agree with everyone else on the paddle usage with shoulder injuries. Or at least limit their usage. Paddles, fins, and other toys can make great training aids. But when it comes down to it, they're only aids. If you do go with paddles, I'd start out with a small distance and gradually build up. That said, with shoulder problems, something like fingertip paddles may make sense. I have the Speedo version, and use them primarily for breaststroke and backstroke, but do occasionally use them for free. And I echo Kirk and James, on the TYR catalyst. I have a pair that I got way back in 2000. I've replaced the bands many times (about every year), but the paddles themselves are still going strong :)

RE: Paddle Recommendations

Former Member — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 10:47:15 GMT

Thanks for the great recommendations! I recently tried on a pair of Speedo's Contoured Swim Paddles and they are heavenly. I hardly feel any strain on my shoulder at all! Will definitely look into the other pairs before making a final decision and purchasing!

RE: Paddle Recommendations

Atlantic — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:02:17 GMT

Honestly, if you have a shoulder that can act up or is weak... Id stay away from any type of paddles. I have had two shoulder surgeries and I will never touch them again. Its not worth it. Please be careful!

RE: Paddle Recommendations

jaadams1 — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 08:03:22 GMT

If you are having shoulder problems I would avoid using paddles. Why play with fire? That said, I have a pair of TYR Catalysts which I like and they are absolutely bomber. I used to used Strokemakers, but they would break after a couple years. Still a great paddle, just not nearly as durable as the Catalysts which use much thicker plastic. I 2nd the TYR Catalysts. I used them when the first models came out in college. My coach came back from the ASCA clinic that fall and brought two of them back with her, giving them to her two distance guys to try out. I loved them, and they're the same style I use today.

RE: Paddle Recommendations

Bill Sive — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:37:25 GMT

I started using the Speedo Tech paddles last year and really enjoy them. Personally I have sized down my hand paddles to the size of my hand no larger. Mild shoulder strain I was experiencing has gone away since using the smaller hand paddles.

RE: Paddle Recommendations

knelson — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:10:57 GMT