HI all. I need help deciding what paddles to use. I just bought TYR Catalyst paddles size S. I am a male, 23 years old, weigh 150 and swim about 3-4 times a week. I would say that I am intermediate. Basically, I feel that the paddles provide too much resistance for me. Although, the Small size is what it recommened. I have no experience with paddles so I am un sure of how they are suppposed to feel. I am afriad that if I move a size smaller, my hands might be slightly too big for it. The XS is recommended for for males and females 11-12 years old. I am in a bind so any help would be appreciated!!!! Regards, Cliff :)
Parents
Former Member
I think I have to express a dissenting view here. My coach has us do at least one paddle set in almost every workout. I've found that they are useful -- particularly for giving a sense of whether your stroke mechanics are correct and giving you the feel of swimming at (or even faster than) race pace. But, I agree that they don't help much for strengthening your pull, and they can cause shoulder soreness.
So, I would suggest starting with the smallest paddle you're comfortable with and working up to a larger size that covers your hand as you get used to them. (But there's no need to work up to a size that's bigger than your hand -- the excess resistance could cause shoulder strain.) Also, avoid rectangular paddles, since they put pressure against your fingers, rather than your palms, so they can distort your stroke and increase the strain on your shoulders.
I think I have to express a dissenting view here. My coach has us do at least one paddle set in almost every workout. I've found that they are useful -- particularly for giving a sense of whether your stroke mechanics are correct and giving you the feel of swimming at (or even faster than) race pace. But, I agree that they don't help much for strengthening your pull, and they can cause shoulder soreness.
So, I would suggest starting with the smallest paddle you're comfortable with and working up to a larger size that covers your hand as you get used to them. (But there's no need to work up to a size that's bigger than your hand -- the excess resistance could cause shoulder strain.) Also, avoid rectangular paddles, since they put pressure against your fingers, rather than your palms, so they can distort your stroke and increase the strain on your shoulders.
