Which size of Strokemaker paddle should I buy? My club sells the following sizes:
blue (5 x6 ) - small
red (6 x7 ) - medium
green (7 x8 ) - large
If it helps, I was an accomplished age group swimmer but I'm new to masters swimming after an almost 20 year layoff. I'm fit. I'm 6'2" with long arms and broad shoulders.
My coach recommended the large ones but I'm a bit nervous because other people said I'd blow out my shoulders with those ones. Any advice?
Kind of depends on your events. I am a sprinter, and I use the medium ones. I tried the large ones, but found they slowed down my stroke rate so much that the speed went away. If you use smaller ones you keep the feel of the water and your stroke counts. If it is possible, try out all of them to find what you like.
There are actually seven sizes. There are two different sizes in each of the colors you mentioned, so it's hard to know if you're talking about the larger or smaller size in these colors. I use the blue paddles that are the second largest and haven't had any shoulder problems. A friend of mine uses the biggest ones (green). I'm about 6'2" 180#, he's more like 6'4" 210#.
My advice is just don't overdo it with the paddles. I love pulling, but it's easy to start using them as a crutch. Don't fall into that trap.
Former Member
As you have stated, many people complain of shoulder pain from using paddles. Many don't use them at all for that reason. Several of the better swimmers on my team do not use them. I agree with Michael - try them and see what you think. Be carefull, shoulder problems are trouble.
Former Member
Personally, I think it depends on how badly you want to see your local orthpedist.
