Seeking a a deFINitive answer

[HillSlugger]

What's the advantage of swimming with fins? I have been of the "fins are useless" school since switching to Total Immersion swimming. But my masters group has "Fun Fin Fridays" occassionally, where all the sets are with fins. I bought myself a pair. It's lots more fun and I can definitely see where it could strengthen my ankles. And my legs were a little extra sore afterward. So I guess that's all good.

But, why swim with fins? Will it really make me stronger? I certain felt a lot slower the moment they came off.

The fins push you faster, but they create more resistance for your kick. I suppose, in theory, they could make your legs/kick stronger. IMO I think you are far better off learning to swim well without fins.

[tribogota]

It's not for swimming it's a strengthening exercise, like lifting weights in the gym. And as you said it IS FUN!

[Veronica]

I think fins make me use my whole foot more when I'm not using them - kinda like Michael Phelps and his HUGE feet.

Veronica

[Reesha]

One of my favorite pool exercises is with fins and a kickboard. I hold the kickboard perpendicular to my chest and facing away from the direction I'm swimming, I hold my legs perpendicular to my torso and kick with nice straight legs. MEGA abs work out!

[roadie gal]

The fins help me with some drills. They give extra propulsion so I don't sink. I can concentrate on my arms or body position or whatever without having to worry about my kick as well.