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Swimming Fins: Complete Guide to Improve Your Kick

Triathlon is a sport that combines three very demanding disciplines: swimming, cycling and running.

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For many, swimming represents the biggest challenge, as mastering technique in the water can make the difference between a solid start to the event or a difficult experience from the start.

With the aim of helping you improve your performance in the aquatic segment, today we will talk about the Swimming fins, a fundamental resource that can enhance your kicking technique and strength in the water.

Throughout this article, you will find useful information whether you are beginner as if you have been competing for some time in national level events or even in challenges HOMBRE DE HIERRO.

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In addition, we will review the advantages of short and long fins, the importance of ankle flexibility and some simple tips to help you choose the right model.

Why are fins key in swimming and triathlon?

When you think about improving your swimming, perhaps the first things that come to mind are perfecting your stroke or increasing your cardiovascular endurance.

However, the kick is one of the essential components that should not be overlooked. If your kick is weak or inefficient, you will lose stability and speed in the water.

This is precisely where the fins make their star appearance.

  • Extra strength contribution: By increasing the surface area with which you push the water, a greater impulse is generated.
  • posture correction: Maintaining good body alignment is easier with the support offered by the fins.
  • Strengthening the kicking technique: By training with fins, your muscles develop, and you gradually improve your stroke when swimming without them.
  • Feeling of fluidity: Many swimmers feel that they flow better in the water when using fins, which increases their confidence.

In a triathlon, starting the race with a good swim can save you valuable minutes and, above all, conserve energy for the rest of the race. This is because the right kick not only propels you forward, but also gives you stability and keeps your body in the ideal position.

Differences between long fins and short fins

The million dollar question: long fins or short fins?

The answer basically depends on your experience as a swimmer and the goals you pursue in your training.

Long Fins

  • Ideal for beginners
    When you're starting out in swimming, extra support can make all the difference. Long fins increase flotation and make it easier to learn basic movements.
  • Greater water resistance
    The extra surface area creates more thrust, but at the same time makes the kick slower. As a result, the kick frequency is reduced.
  • Learning the technique
    They allow you to concentrate on your body position and arm movement, without worrying so much about staying afloat.

If you are just starting out in triathlon or swimming, you may be using long fins for a time.

They will help you feel more confident in the water and understand how to align your body. However, at some point, you will probably need migrate to short fins to train at a kick cadence similar to the real thing.

Short Fins

  • Recommended for experienced swimmers
    If you have already mastered the technique and are looking to polish your weak points, these are your best option.
  • Higher kick frequency
    They allow for a fast kicking rhythm that resembles the movement without fins. This reinforces muscle memory and real technique.
  • Specific strength and endurance
    Legwork focuses on speed and power. This way, you improve your performance during triathlon swimming.
  • They tend to be more compact
    They are practical to take to training and do not take up much space in the backpack.

In conclusion, the choice between long or short fins depends on your skill level.

 Those who are learning to swim are recommended to start with long fins not to get discouraged. On the contrary, those who seek to train strength and kick technique more specifically opt for short fins.

Ankle flexibility: the great forgotten

In addition to size, one aspect that is often overlooked is the ankle flexibility.

For an efficient kick, it is vital to have a good range of motion. A stiff ankle limits push-off and can increase the risk of injury.

  • Fins with holes on the sides: They allow for greater sensitivity in the ankle, as they allow the foot to move more freely. This means that you can work on your flexibility and your kicking technique together.
  • Closed fins: : Being fully closed, they tend to restrict ankle mobility a bit. This can be helpful in certain types of strength training, but they are not always the best option if you are looking for a more comprehensive technical job.

Some experienced swimmers point out that fins with holes They provide a better feel in the water and a more natural propulsion, as well as keeping the foot in a more ergonomic position.

If you have ankle mobility issues or are recovering from an injury, it's a good idea to try those with a less rigid fit first.

Recommended exercises and tips for use

Regardless of the fin length you choose, it is essential that your training is varied and balanced. Here are some ideas for using them effectively:

  1. Progressive warm-up
    • Start by swimming 200 meters without fins at a slow pace.
    • Then add fins and do another 200 meters of gentle swimming, focusing on kicking technique.
    • This warm-up will allow you to prepare your ankles and leg muscles.
  2. Speed ​​series (sprints)
    • Perform 25 or 50 meter intervals with short fins at maximum intensity.
    • Rest 20-30 seconds between each interval.
    • This type of work improves your leg power and your oxygenation capacity.
  3. Pure kick work (kick)
    • Hold a kickboard with your arms straight.
    • Just focus on kicking with your fins on.
    • Focus on keeping the kick continuous, without lifting your feet too far out of the water.
    • If you are a beginner and use long fins, this exercise will help you strengthen your lower body and gain confidence.
  4. Mixed series
    • Combine swimming with and without fins within the same series.
    • For example: 50 meters with fins + 50 meters without fins, and repeat.
    • This way, you will train contrast, which will help you improve your feeling of lightness when you take them off.
  5. Technique sessions
    • Practice the hydrodynamic position: keep your head aligned with your body and feel your hand gently enter the water.
    • Correct mistakes in your kick, especially if you tend to over-bend or over-extend your knees.

important tips

  • Choose the correct size: An improper fit can cause chafing or the fins to come off when kicking hard.
  • Dry your fins well: Keeping them in good condition will prolong their useful life.
  • Do not abuse its use: Training with fins alone can create dependency and neglect the strength you develop without them.
  • Combines with other materials: The pull buoy or hand paddles are tools that also strengthen the upper body and complement leg training.

Now that you know the basics of choosing and training with fins, it's time to review some specific models that you can find in the market.

Below are some options for short fins y long fins that can fit different profiles of swimmers and triathletes.

Buying Guide: Short Fins

Nabaiji Tricolor Silfins

Short swimming fins: Nabaiji Silfins Tricolor
Short swimming fins: Nabaiji Silfins Tricolor
  • Designed for swimmers who train regularly.
  • They provide significant muscle reinforcement in the lower part of the body.
  • They promote movements very similar to the natural kick.
  • They allow to maintain a good frequency of kicks.
  • By increasing the demand, they help raise the heart rate in each session.

These fins are characterized by their compact size and tricolor design, which is eye-catching and ensures a comfortable fit. They are ideal for those looking for strength training without neglecting technique.

Nabaiji Easyfins 100

Short swimming fins: Nabaiji Easyfins 100
Short swimming fins: Nabaiji Easyfins 100
  • Economical fins of Decathlon.
  • Short blade approximately 30-37 cm, depending on size.
  • Made of 100% silicone for greater flexibility.
  • Designed to train with natural movements.
  • They generate a low-intensity muscular effort, perfect for swimmers who want a gradual increase in difficulty.

If you are concerned about value for money and are looking for a basic product to get you started with fins, this is a great option. They are easy to carry and very handy for light or technical sessions.

Arena Power Fin Pro II

Short swimming fins: Arena Power Fin Pro II
Short swimming fins: Arena Power Fin Pro II
  • Ideal for competitive swimmers who want extra speed.
  • Short shovel for a maximum thrust forward.
  • Open heel ensures ankle flexibility.
  • Designed with special notches that promote faster kicks.
  • Soft silicone material for superior comfort.

This model is very popular among those preparing to compete and need demanding training. wrist support It is firm, and the open heel facilitates more fluid movements.

Shopping guide: Long Fins

Nabaiji Topfins

Nabaiji Topfins Long Swimming Fins
Nabaiji Topfins Long Swimming Fins
  • Recommended for large distances.
  • Suitable for technical work and underwater training.
  • Larger pushing surface for moving forward with less effort.
  • They allow you to concentrate on your stroke technique while providing extra flotation.

If your priority is the resistance and you still haven't fully mastered swimming, these fins can be your ally. They are very useful for long kicking sessions and, due to their size, they help to stabilize the body.

Nabaiji Long Trainfins

Nabaiji Trainfins Long Swimming Fins
Nabaiji Trainfins Long Swimming Fins
  • Designed for technique sessions and kick work at low or medium intensity.
  • Ideal for dolphin kick exercises and underwater training.
  • Its length facilitates a good push, but reduces the frequency of the kick.

They are the perfect choice for swimmers looking to perfect strokes such as the butterfly or underwater dolphin, where the kick plays a fundamental role.

Radbug 100 (Loose Heel)

Radbug 100 Long Swimming Fins (Loose Heel)
Radbug 100 Long Swimming Fins (Loose Heel)
  • Long fin with open heel.
  • Allows greater freedom of movement and comfort.
  • Ideal for technical work and focusing on posture.
  • A good choice for intermediate and advanced swimmers who want to refine their kick.

This model features a loose heel to improve ventilation and ankle flexibility. In addition, by offering a greater range of movement, it is interesting for those who want to combine resistance and technique.

How to choose the perfect fins for your progress

Given the wide variety of models on the market, it is normal to feel overwhelmed when looking for the most suitable fins. These points can guide you:

  1. Evaluate your level of experience
    • If you're new to swimming, start with long fins. When you gain confidence, switch to shorter fins.
    • If you are already a regular swimmer or an experienced triathlete, short fins will help you perfect your technique and kick frequency.
  2. Consider your goals
    • Looking to improve your speed? Short fins focus training on kick power and frequency.
    • Are you interested in gaining confidence in floating and reinforcing basic technique? Long fins may be the choice.
  3. Try different models
    • Some brands offer fins with different degrees of stiffness or materials.
    • If possible, try them in the pool before purchasing.
  4. Pay attention to the flexibility of your ankle
    • Choose fins that do not limit your mobility.
    • If you have stiff ankles, consider wearing ones with holes in the instep or an open heel.
  5. Consult with your trainer
    • A good triathlon or swimming coach can guide you according to your technique and your feelings in the water.

In a high-competition scenario—for example, if you're preparing for an IRONMAN race—the details make the difference.

The choice of Swimming fins It is not a minor aspect, since it can condition your progress and the efficiency of your swimming.

What about personal preference?

Some swimmers choose their fins purely for their own benefit. comfort and the feel they offer in the water. Ultimately, this part is very subjective. Just like with the slippers When it comes to running, personal choice plays an important role.

If you love the kick sensation that fins with holes provide and feel more free and natural, that may be your best bet to improve your training.

On the other hand, if you prefer the solidity of closed fins and find it easier to keep your foot steady, then choose this model. The essential thing is that they help you progress and feel good every time you swim.

Conclusion:

In short, the Swimming fins They are a valuable addition to both the beginner swimmer and the experienced triathlete. For those who are just starting out, long fins make it easier to float and learn the basics of swimming.

When the goal is to hone technique and leg strength, short fins are the best option, as they bring the kick frequency closer to the reality of competition.

Ankle Flexibility This is also a crucial aspect. A mobile ankle increases the efficiency of your kick and reduces the chances of injury. If you choose fins with holes, you will promote freedom of movement and the development of a more natural technique.

Thus, analyze your needs, try different types of fins and follow the advice of your coach or teammates. With practice, you will discover which model best suits your way of swimming and the challenges you want to face.

Now it's your turn! Give fins a try in your next training session and see how they impact your technique, speed and safety in the water.

This way, you will be one step closer to achieving your triathlon goals. See you at the starting line!

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Triathlon News Editorial: We are the award-winning team in 2019 and Best Triathlon Website, made up of communicators passionate about triathlon, with more than 14 years of experience. We strive to offer you the most accurate, relevant and up-to-date information, conveying the excitement and dedication that characterize this sport.
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