Swimmers use hand paddles to improve upper body strength, improve technique and vary resistance in the water. Hand paddles come in many different styles, based on the function you desire. Some of the most popular styles of hand paddles include Water Gear AquaFlex paddles, Finis Freestyler paddles, Finis Agility paddles and Han’s paddles.
Water Gear AquaFlex Paddles have adjustable fan blades on each side which allow the user to vary resistance level in the water. Their innovative design functions to increase resistance in the water for an upper body workout; however, they can also be used for therapeutic purposes. Try swimming freestyle while holding them, or even submerging to your shoulders and clapping with them for a chest workout. These are paddles you can certainly get creative with!
The Finis Freestyler paddles are the only paddles designed specifically for improving your freestyle stroke. The blade on the underside facilitates improvement of freestyle technique. These paddles glide across the water like miniature surfboards. Getting your elbows up high is important for freestyle swimming, and these paddles were designed to assist with that aspect as well as with maximum elbow extension. The Finis Freestyler paddles also facilitate proper hand position and entry into the water. They are a great choice for anyone looking to improve and gain confidence in their freestyle technique. They also come in a Jr. Size for young swimmers.
The strapless Finis Agility paddles are designed to improve responsiveness and dexterity in the water. One of the only strapless hand paddles, the Agility Paddles promote proper vertical arm entry. (If your arm-stroke entry is poor, you will know immediately because the paddles will slip off.) These paddles aid in improving most swim strokes, including the backstroke, breaststroke, freestyle and butterfly. Their scoop design fits naturally around your hands and a portion of your forearms, helping you to keep your forearms in a vertical position while swimming. Their design also facilitates comfort and easy use in the water.
The original Han’s paddles are thought to be the most versatile paddles available. They offer multiple hand position options in order to vary results. There are two positions for the freestyle crawl motion, two for general training and one for backstroke drills. These paddles are designed with small holes to enhance the swimmer’s perception of the water on his or her hands, thus increasing awareness and improving stroke technique. The paddles can be reversed on your hands for stroke adjustment and to vary the stimulus. These paddles are truly multitalented.
If you are looking to change up your water exercise routine, Water Gear AquaFlex paddles are a great way to go. For freestyle swimmers, try the Finis Freestyler paddles. To improve overall stroke technique for a variety of swim styles, try the Finis Agility paddles, and the Han’s paddles are a great choice if you are looking to increase your awareness and agility in the water. Whether you are looking to improve stroke technique or simply to get a better workout in the water, swim paddles are a great choice for varying resistance and increasing your own kinesthetic awareness!

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