A bigger fin has been stigmatized as a crutch or cheat at many swim practices across the globe, yet nothing could be further from the truth.
Fins are an excellent training aid when used for drills. When I prescribe drills such as Kick On Side for stroke correction the primary focus is on the upper body (posture, alignment, or hand/arm/elbow positioning). If the swimmer attempts to do Kick On Side drill wearing no fins or short fins like Zoomers the effort level increases to the point where it’s almost impossible to focus on doing the drill properly. Wearing a bigger fin decreases the energy expenditure and allows the swimmer to concentrate on the fine points of stroke correction.
A bigger fin is also good for ankle flexibility. The large surface area will help plantar flex and dorsiflex the ankle. Chances are if you are not working on your ankle flexibility you have stiff ankles. Stiff ankles stuck in the dorsiflexed position will drag your legs down compromising your overall body position in the water. Wearing fins of this size will help stretch them out, so strap them on and enjoy the ride!
I recommend using the Finis Floating Fin. If you are a shared size go up a size. For example, if you are a size 7 and the fin options are 5-7 or 7-9, choose size 7-9.
As a sponsor of Ogren Swim Coaching, Finis offers all readers 25% off their online purchases with the promo code ogrenswim.
Registration open for Stroke Correction Clinics in Sterling Va. and Charleston S.C. Register here.
Happy Swimming!