what finning method and fins to use...

[scubajoh44]

I am in my DM class and just did my 400 meter swim. (not telling my time ) Anyway, next week I'm doing my 800 meter snorkel. I got in a conversation with some divers about different finning methods to use. Someone suggested the frog kick. I love the frog kick for nice relaxing dives, but for my TIMED long snorkel????? Didn't make sense to me. Any suggestions for a fast kick on the surface?
Also, I like my twin jets, but they are sure not the fastest. I like them because I don't get cramps. On this timed snorkel, I need to be fast. I use Genesis too, but think I might get cramps on such a long swim. Anyone have advice? (besides get in shape? :shades: ) Thanks....

 

[Whatgoesdown]

Cressi Gara 3000s and a bit of weight to keep your feet down! They work with a frog kick too.

 

[TorontoDive]

Hmmm....For my DM 800m snorkel test (and all the other tests) I used regular (non-split) fins and used a modified flutter kick so that the fins never got raised above the surface level. Imagine a regular flutter kick but the stroking is offset so that the highest point is just below the water line. I just kept my hands/arms tight to my sides and my times were fine.

 

[Ber Rabbit]

Clasp your hands behind your back and rest them on your butt, that helps keep your butt and hence your legs underwater. A little bit of an arch in your back is also helpful. I did mine with my jets and focused on driving the kick from my hip.
Ber :lilbunny:

 

[scubajoh44]

Did you use ankle weights or were you just able to keep your legs low enough?

 

[scubajoh44]

This is helpful!! Thanks.

 

[Santa]

I've skipped my atomic splits in favour of jets but I might actually opt for them for such a workout. They're not great for quick student-grapping acceleration but perform well when you build up and maintain speed - and they're real easy on your joints and muscles. Always liked them on the surface if not down there.

 

[Louie]

When I had to do the dreaded snorkel swim in the pool, I was advised strongly by those in the know to use the tiny little fins (those useless things given to resort snorkellers). Worked well and somehow, it made things easier.

If wearing a wetsuit, wear a bit of weight.

 

[scubajoh44]

For years and YEARS I actually used those dreaded short snorkel fins. When I got REAL fins, it turned me into a fin finatic. I can't see them making me faster!??