How do you know how to improve your arm technique if you can't see them? Your arms are responsible for most of the propulsion in front crawl, so a few tweaks to your technique can make a big difference to your stroke. But, you have to feel what they're doing.
That's
where hand paddles can be useful. I tested out Otion's Swim Paddles - the first we've found designed to help you improve your hand shape and finger position.
We share some tips and tricks for better arm technique from the magazine. And if you subscribe today, you'll get a free pair of Otion Swim Paddles worth £38.
Simon Griffiths, Founder
FINGER FINESSE
Do you know how to space your fingers when you swim? It's not close together like a spoon or scoop as you might have been taught as a child.
If you hold your fingers too tight and tense, you lose surface area and add unnecessary tension. If they’re too far apart, water slips through and you lose purchase. So, it's optimal to have your fingers a short distance apart. Your hand should be relaxed and have a natural curve.
Paddles usually claim to serve one of two
purposes: building strength and improving the pathway of your hand through the water. Some paddles claim to do both. But the Otion is the first swim paddle we’ve come across designed to also help you improve your hand shape and finger position.
Read our verdict on these innovative hand paddles.
The beauty of swimming is that anyone can do it. It's one sport where technique is everything - and you can learn at any stage of life.
Whether you're just starting out or you've been swimming for years, you can make little tweaks to your stroke that have a big impact. Swim faster, or swim smoother, more meditatively, get in a flow state, and enjoy swimming further, for longer and more confidently.
As outdoor swimmers and coaches, we share tips, tricks and techniques
so that you can get more from your swimming.
Subscribe to get access to all our knowledge-based articles, training programmes, events and webinars. The first 15 people to subscribe from this email will also get a free set of Otion Swim Paddles worth £38.
