Paddles are a fantastic training aid for swimming because they can help develop strength, power and feel for the water. If you’re looking for a real upper body workout, try combining paddles with a pull buoy.

Finger paddles are particularly good for working on technique. Much smaller than regular paddles, they encourage swimmers to enter in an effective fingertip first position.

The main benefits of paddles include:

Helps to promote fingertip entry

Delivers an upper body workout

Builds strength

You need to be mindful of your technique when swimming with paddles as many swimmers will try to stretch extra-long while wearing them. When your arms grow tired with the added pressure of paddles it’s important to keep the elbows high during the pull phase. Drawing the elbow back first releases power, imagine you are pushing a barrel back behind you.

When wearing paddles you should try to avoid short stroking or overreaching as well as entering in front of the face as this will impinge on the shoulder over time.  You should also avoid dropping your elbows as power comes from pulling through the water with the elbow high