OPEN FINGERS VERSUS CLOSED FINGERS IN SWIMMING

​Swimming technique plays a crucial role in a swimmer's performance and injury prevention. One aspect that has sparked debate among swimmers and coaches is whether to swim with open fingers or closed fingers. Swimming is a sport that requires precision and technique to excel in the water.

Among the various aspects of swimming technique, the debate between open finger swimming and closed finger swimming has long been a topic of discussion. Open finger swimming involves keeping the fingers relaxed and slightly apart during the stroke, while closed finger swimming requires tightly clenching the fingers together. Both techniques have their proponents and claimed benefits, leading to a fascinating debate in the swimming community. Whether you are training for a triathlon or swimming to gain fitness, we can tailor your Strictly Swimming London lesson to develop the best hand position for you.

Open Finger Swimming 

Swimming with open fingers, also known as "relaxed" or "loose" hand technique, involves keeping the fingers slightly apart during the stroke. This technique allows for a more relaxed and natural movement of the hand through the water, reducing fatigue and the risk of injury. One advantage of open finger swimming is the increased range of motion in the hand, wrist, and forearm, leading to greater power and propulsion. Additionally, open fingers can help prevent cramping, a common issue for swimmers using closed fingers. It is worth noting that "open finger swimming" refers to the fingers being slightly apart, not stretched wide apart.

Closed Finger Swimming 

Closed finger swimming, also known as "tight" or "firm" hand technique, involves keeping the fingers tightly clenched during the stroke. This technique is often debated, with some swimmers believing it provides more power and control in the water. Closed fingers create a streamlined hand position, reducing drag and increasing speed and efficiency. The technique can also improve grip for sudden turns or maneuvers.

Benefits of Open Finger Swimming

1. Increased Surface Area: Open fingers allow water to flow between the fingers, effectively increasing the surface area that interacts with the water. This can enhance propulsion and generate more force and power in each stroke.
2. Improved Sensitivity and Feel for the Water: Open fingers provide better water feedback, allowing swimmers to make necessary adjustments to their stroke technique. This sensitivity helps maintain an optimal catch, pull, and recovery.
3. Reduced Drag: Although open fingers introduce some drag, it is considered minimal compared to the potential benefits. Efficient stroke technique can manage this drag.
4. Enhanced Relaxation and Reduced Tension: Open fingers promote a relaxed hand position, minimizing tension in the hands and forearms. This leads to increased fluidity and efficiency in the stroke.
5. Individual Variation: The effects of open fingers can vary among swimmers due to factors like hand size, flexibility, and stroke technique. Swimmers should experiment to find the most effective technique for them.

Benefits of Closed Finger Swimming

1. Streamlined Hand Position: Closed fingers create a streamlined shape, reducing the surface area that interacts with the water. This minimizes drag and improves efficiency.
2. Consistent Pull: Closed fingers help maintain a strong and consistent pull throughout the stroke. By keeping the fingers together, swimmers maximize the surface area for effective pushing against the water.
3. Reduced Water Leakage: Closed fingers minimize gaps between the fingers, optimizing the transfer of force from the hand to the water. This improves efficiency and minimizes energy wastage.
4. Enhanced Grip: Closed fingers offer a firmer grip on the water, providing stability and control during the stroke.
5. Potential Tension and Fatigue: Some swimmers may experience increased tension and fatigue in the hands and forearms with closed fingers. Relaxation and fluidity in stroke technique are crucial to prevent excessive strain.
6. Individual Variation: The effects of closed fingers can vary among swimmers based on hand size, flexibility, and stroke mechanics.

A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine compared elite swimmers using both open and closed finger techniques. The study found that closed-finger technique resulted in greater peak force and propulsion, while open-finger technique resulted in less finger muscle activity and more activity in the upper arm and shoulder, potentially reducing fatigue and injury.

Another study in the Journal of Applied Biomechanics found that closed-finger technique produced greater peak force but also higher muscle fatigue. The study observed increased muscle activation in the fingers but also in the upper arm and shoulder.

A 2020 study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that open-finger technique resulted in greater power output and stroke rate compared to closed-finger technique. However, closed-finger technique led to greater finger muscle activity, potentially enhancing muscle endurance over time.

In conclusion, the choice between open and closed fingers in swimming is highly individual and depends on the swimmer's goals, experience, and physical abilities. Open fingers may be less fatiguing and less prone to injury, while closed fingers may provide more power and control. However, scientific evidence is limited, and swimmers should experiment with both techniques to find what feels most comfortable and effective for them. A combination of a slightly closed finger with a relaxed technique of open fingers may also be an option worth considering.

Please feel free to discuss these techniques with your Strictly Swimming London coach during your lessons.

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