General Discussion Triathlon Talk » swim paddles-why??? Rss Feed  
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2008-10-16 9:12 AM

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Subject: swim paddles-why???
Newbie swimmer; completed 2 sprints to date.  Wondering what the purpose of the swim paddles is?


2008-10-16 9:14 AM
in reply to: #1746759

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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???
They can make you feel weakness in your stroke, and can help build strength in your arms/delts. If you are a real new swimmer, I would probably not recommend them until you have a little more time in the pool.
2008-10-16 9:15 AM
in reply to: #1746759

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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???
Various functions--two that stand out for me: they assist with proper form (easier to tell if you have screwed up entry, arm turns aren't right, etc. as more water is caught) and as a strength builder by providing extra resistance. 
2008-10-17 9:23 AM
in reply to: #1746759

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Champion
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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???
As stated above, but they also let you know if you are not pulling all the way to your hip.  Make sure you get the ones that do not wrap around your wrist.  If you pull out early, the paddle will slip off of your hand. 
2008-10-17 9:23 AM
in reply to: #1746759

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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???

As stated above, they'll help you find the problems with your stroke.  I use the Finis freestyler paddles, love them.  The first time with them I didn't make it down half a length without them catching water and falling off.  Within two laps I had the eureka moment and found out what it meant to rotate and stroke properly.  I use to have shoulder soreness issues, but with the paddles you will learn to catch, rotate-pull and follow through properly and for me it the lats that became fatigued, as they should.  As with anything they are a tool to use as a supplement here and there.  

2008-10-17 12:20 PM
in reply to: #1746759

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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???

Using paddles is like lifting weights with a swim motion.  Use them discerningly to avoid injury.

Matt Cazalas
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2008-10-17 2:58 PM
in reply to: #1746759

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Pro
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Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???
Recently I started using paddles once a week in my swims, the biggest factor for me is form. I tend to slow down using them, but I can see (feel) exactly how my stroke is going.
2008-10-17 2:58 PM
in reply to: #1746759

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Pro
5761
50005001001002525
Bartlett, TN
Subject: RE: swim paddles-why???
Recently I started using paddles once a week in my swims, the biggest factor for me is form. I tend to slow down using them, but I can see (feel) exactly how my stroke is going.
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