Re: Fun Work Out! Try it

An open hand technique is good, but don't get carried away.  People used to always talk about cupping your hands.  What you want to do is cup your hands and let your fingers be a little relaxed.  Having small gaps between your fingers will allow you to pull with a larger surface.  If you have small gaps the water will still get caught because of its tension.  If you allow too much space then you will become less eficient as the water will pass through your fingers.  

Also, try pulling in a S shaped pull so that as your arm crosses you body you are pulling through the water all the way from your finger tips to your elbow.  This allows that whole area to be your paddle.

Don't forget to reach far before putting your hand in the water and to have a strong finishing push before taking your hand out of the water.

Hope this helps, let me know if you want me to clarify anything.