Hello Fellow Swimmers,
I have been back in the pool for about 11 months after a 35 year absence and have steadily made progress and now want to start working on my stroke. I have noticed that when we do pull sets, I can move at a pretty reasonable speed (10 x 100M free on 1:40 with me consistently hitting the wall at about 1:30) without killing myself. I do not use paddles but do use a buoy during pull sets. In my lane, I notice that I can keep up with those who use the paddles except for a few of the faster ones. ( I characterize myself as an average speed swimmer)
I have noticed that many of the folks in the fast lane were pulling out their paddles when working on a 1:25 interval for the 100 free sets. That is a pretty quick interval and I do not think I could make a full set of ten at this time.
So, I have been toying with the idea of using paddles during pull sets. I am an "upper body" swimmer with a pretty good pull technique and I wonder if it would help me increase my strength or just be a crutch. I say that because I ditched my fins about six months ago and it made me a much better kicker.
What are everyone's experiences out there? Is shoulder injury a worry? I have never used these things and would love to have input on their strengths and weaknesses.
Thanks
Parents
Former Member
I think in most instances, pulling without paddles is better. If you are able to keep up with the others, I think it improves overall feel to pull without paddles. The main benefit of paddles is either strength or easier speed. Since speed is not an issue for you, you should only use them as needed to build strength.
Since you mentioned your shoulders I would make sure that you get some paddles that have some give and dont put too much strain on the shoulders
I think in most instances, pulling without paddles is better. If you are able to keep up with the others, I think it improves overall feel to pull without paddles. The main benefit of paddles is either strength or easier speed. Since speed is not an issue for you, you should only use them as needed to build strength.
Since you mentioned your shoulders I would make sure that you get some paddles that have some give and dont put too much strain on the shoulders
