Hi everyone, got a question on the use of hand paddles. I've been swimming over a year now, (about 4 times a week, 3000 yards average). 2 months ago I encorporated hand paddles into my workout. Usually about 500-1000 yards, typically 50,s and 100's on a interval such as .45 or1:30. Since then, the last 3 times I swam freestyle events (mainly100's & 200's), my times have actually fallen off. My yearly big meet is coming up in the end of April. Should I discontinue the use of them soon. Could my arms be overworked and tired? I have absolutely no shoulder/arm pain because of them.
Thanks for all suggestions
Parents
Former Member
There are probably other uses for hand paddles, but from my understanding:
1) Hand paddles help build upper body strength. (risk: shoulder)
2) Hand paddles help the swimmer get used, to and more streamlined at, faster speeds. (expense: kick weakens)
You may be getting a stronger upper body, but your times are getting worse because you're learning to rely on your hands. In a normal stroke without paddles your arms provide most of the pulling force. Use fistgloves (or simply swim with fists) to help correct the damage paddles are doing to your stroke technique.
I suggest you be sure to use fistgloves as often as you use hand paddles. You can use fistgloves and fins if you want to keep your speed up.
Reply
Former Member
There are probably other uses for hand paddles, but from my understanding:
1) Hand paddles help build upper body strength. (risk: shoulder)
2) Hand paddles help the swimmer get used, to and more streamlined at, faster speeds. (expense: kick weakens)
You may be getting a stronger upper body, but your times are getting worse because you're learning to rely on your hands. In a normal stroke without paddles your arms provide most of the pulling force. Use fistgloves (or simply swim with fists) to help correct the damage paddles are doing to your stroke technique.
I suggest you be sure to use fistgloves as often as you use hand paddles. You can use fistgloves and fins if you want to keep your speed up.
