I recently bought a new set of hand paddles and I feel like an idiot because I can't quite figure out how to do a successful flip turn with them. I can do the flip, but I can't seem to get my arms into a streamlined position off the wall without coming to a grinding halt. My old set was much smaller so I didn't notice this problem so much. Tips?
Originally posted by IndyGal
Tips?
Ditch the paddles.
Former Member
Geek, you are so helpful!
You'll get used to it. I used to have that problem with paddles, it actually probally shows an error in your flip turn. Keep working on it!
Former Member
The fact that you are having this problem shows you that you have some inefficiencies in your hand positioning as you flip.
The great thing about paddles is that they exaggerate problems with your hand placement (during your stroke and, as you point out, during your flip.) If the paddles get "stuck" in the water, it means that your hands are doing so as well (to a lesser extent.) Working on eliminating these inefficiencies when you wear paddles will translate into more efficient hand placement overall.
It's hard to diagnose what's happening with your hands without direct observation. But I will suggest this: When you begin your flip, your hands/arms (both hands) should be at your sides. Don't point them outwards and rotate them as aids to assist your flip. It's one of the more common techniques, but it's horribly inefficient.
For several years, whenever I did a pull set, I'd do open turns...the paddle problems, the pull buoy falling out, etc. Just made me uncomfortable.
Guvanah is right, if you notice something with paddles (and/or pull buoy) then there's probably something wrong with your stroke entirely. You obviously can't put your paddles straight up/down in front of you, you want them to glide through the water as best they can.
Do you swim with a coached team, or alone? If with a coach, ask him/her to take a look. If alone, maybe there is someone around who could give you some feedback? Otherwise, just keep experimenting, but Guvanah's 3rd paragraph tips sound VERY helpful.
Former Member
Originally posted by IndyGal
I was watching myself last night and I think Guv nailed it... I've definitely been using my hands to help propel the flip. Ah, well, something new to practice!
Check out this web site:
Flip Turn Video
It has a nice description plus a video.
If you do your turn with your hands down your sides, you still get to use them to propel your flip. You just use them differently. (And in my opinion, far more efficiently and far stronger.)
Getting a good flip turn technique will allow you to do flips whether you are using paddles, buoys, fins, etc.
Former Member
I was watching myself last night and I think Guv nailed it... I've definitely been using my hands to help propel the flip. Ah, well, something new to practice!
