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
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Former Member
Actually I do use fins/kickboards equally as much as paddles. I started using tools just to break things up after a year without using any. It does add interest to workouts. I''ll probably use them for 2-3 more weeks then get ready for a taper. Guess I'll see what happens. If my times don't improve over my last big meet (August 04), then I'll assume they didn't help but hurt. I noticed a lot of college swimmers when they're home on break use them so I figured why not give them a try.
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Former Member
Actually I do use fins/kickboards equally as much as paddles. I started using tools just to break things up after a year without using any. It does add interest to workouts. I''ll probably use them for 2-3 more weeks then get ready for a taper. Guess I'll see what happens. If my times don't improve over my last big meet (August 04), then I'll assume they didn't help but hurt. I noticed a lot of college swimmers when they're home on break use them so I figured why not give them a try.
