Swim paddle training aid apparatus

Abstract

A swim training aid apparatus including a relatively thin plate member having a first and second surface separated by a leading edge on one end of the plate member, and a trailing edge on an opposite end. The leading edge is such that when the training aid apparatus is operationally mounted to the swimmer's hand, the swimmer is capable of articulating at least their intermediary phalanges of the hand over the leading edge, to a gripping position. The trailing edge is configured to extend proximally past the wrist joint of the swimmer The plate member includes wrist recess formed and dimensioned for articulating receipt of the swimmer's wrist joint therein. A retaining device cooperates with the plate member and the swimmer's hand to releasably retain the same to the training aid apparatus in the operating position.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 393,993, filed Oct. 18, 2010, entitled “SWIM PADDLE,” naming Eduard Sherstenev as the inventor, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to athletic training devices, and more particularly, relates to competitive swimmers' training apparatus.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In the field of competitive swimming, it has been recognized that the development of strength and endurance of one's swimming muscles is one of the keys for success and speed, when training. While weight lifting is still an important training technique, this lifting exercise alone will not adequately develop all the muscles utilized in a swimming stroke, let alone increasing one's endurance.[0004]As a consequence, various swim training aids have been developed that increase t...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]Accordingly, the swimmer's fingers are cupped or creased around the leading edge of the plate member, during their swim stroke. This hand configuration places their arms and shoulders in a more natural position, facilitating their swim technique as well as reducing potential injury.

Problems solved by technology

While weight lifting is still an important training technique, this lifting exercise alone will not adequately develop all the muscles utilized in a swimming stroke, let alone increasing one's endurance.

Although these current swim paddle designs do increase water resistance, and thus improve upper body strength and endurance, they have significant drawbacks.

This forced pressure on the paddle with swimmer's fingers hinders the swimmer's technique and adds more pressure to swimmer's shoulder, which is a leading source of injury (e.g., rotator cuff) for swimmers.

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