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
I have the TYR Catalyst hand paddles and use them when we're doing a strict pull set. Sometimes I'll also use them for our hypoxic sets (breath control). I'd say this works out to 400-600 yards, 1-2 times a week (I swim 5x week usually).
I've gone through phases with paddles where I'd use them everyday, to sometimes 1 time in 2 weeks. All depends really what the coach has in store for our workout. One thing I rarely do is wear them for a swim set....unless I'm in a lane with swimmers significantly faster than I am...they do really make me go faster.
The only problem I've had was tennis elbow when I first started using paddles (8+ years ago). I just had to back off a bit, and it has never come back.
I'm going to take all advice into consideration and back off the paddles. maybe just a couple more workouts at 200yds with them in the next 2 weeks, hopefully I'll see some improvement this year....and they are fun to use.
Is your pain on the outside or inside (same side as pinkie with palm facing you) of the forearm joint. If inside, then it's golfer's elbow - medial epicodilitis. I had it - Had to get a shot, but it worked
How did you get rid of the tennis elbow? I have been using paddles to help with my catch. I guess I've been using them a little too much and have developed tennis elbow. Did you do any special exercises or stretches, or did you just rest it till it went away?
I think the paddles and the way I hold my grandson both contributed to this problem but right now I can't swim a lick without pain.
