I had a moan about this on Facebook last night, but I’m gonna have another one here.
Yesterday my new fins arrived. The fins I had ordered specifically because my new coach had suggested that I use some to help with a couple of drills – I need to focus on correcting the arms and shoulders, so the fins help to provide more propulsion meaning that I can concentrate on the technique of the arms and not ‘swimming’. I was excited. Not only was it a new toy to play with, but I could do the drills I’d been assigned and make some well needed improvements.
A gentle warm up complete and I put the fins on for the first time ever. I was intending to do a few lengths with them to get used to them before I started the drills. However I’d only completed my 4th length when one of the lifeguards stopped me to tell me I wasn’t allowed to wear them. She didn’t seem to know why, just that it was policy, so I asked to speak to the manager. He came to the pool a few minutes later, but again couldn’t tell me why they were banned, quoting the obligatory ‘health & safety’.
I asked to see the documents – what I really wanted was for them to show me how it was a health and safety risk, but this is what he gave me See 6.2.1):
Health & Safety
I’m pretty sure that this isn’t available to see anywhere on the pool’s website. So the only way I knew they were not allowed is to be specifically told by a lifeguard – yet all other types of equipment is allowed and I’ve seen someone using a snorkel.
To say I’m a bit pissed off about is an understatement.
I’d love to know if there are any reports or research documents that look at this issue – do you know of any?
1000kmstowindermere 
Same happens at my pool, there is never a designated fin wearing session for the public. Here it seems only clubs are allowed to use fins and training paddles 😦
However, a question: How did you feel they affected your stroke when you were trying them out?
To be honest I couldn’t quite get used to them – but I only did 100m. I have a very gentle kick at the best of times, so it felt as if I needed to kick harder to get any real benefit. I guess I’ll never find out now 😦
I had a look on Youtube, and found something I’ve never seen before – Finswimming! –
That’s amazing swimming – but a very strange video!
The other day I asked the lifeguard at our local pool if they had any hand paddles I could use. They have pull buoys and paddle boards available but no hand paddles. The answer was yes we have them and no I can’t borrow them. When I asked why I got the old health and safety response. So I bought a pair of my own and that’s seemingly OK!! Interestingly I often see people using fins without a word from the lifeguards. There is no rhyme not reason – it’s a box ticking exercise.
Yes, it’s the lack of consistency that is so annoying about it – paddles are fine apparently.
Pingback: Wet pants | 1000kmstowindermere
Pingback: Improving my technique | 1000kmstowindermere