Håndpaddles

Håndpaddles, often simply called paddles, are swimming aids designed to be worn on the hands. They typically consist of a flat or slightly curved surface with straps to secure them to the wearer's palm and fingers. The primary purpose of håndpaddles is to increase the surface area of the hand, thereby enhancing the amount of water a swimmer can push against with each stroke. This increased resistance can lead to several training benefits.

Swimmers use håndpaddles to build upper body strength, particularly in the shoulders, arms, and back muscles. By requiring more force to move through the water, paddles provide a more intense workout for these muscle groups. Additionally, the increased resistance helps swimmers improve their "feel" for the water, allowing them to better understand how to generate propulsion efficiently. This improved technique can translate to faster swimming times and more effective stroke mechanics when the paddles are removed.

Håndpaddles come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each offering slightly different training effects. Smaller, flatter paddles are often used for technique work, while larger, more contoured paddles are suited for strength training. They are a common tool in competitive swimming training programs, used by swimmers of all levels from beginners to elite athletes, to enhance both strength and technique in the water.