Kayak Paddling: Forward Paddling
Forward paddling seems easy, but there is room
for improvement.
Forward paddling is probably the most under-appreciated
and under-practiced kayaking move. However, as you might
imagine, this is the most important move that you can learn.
Depending on where you're going to be kayaking, and how long of
a kayak tour you intend to go on, good forward paddling may end
up saving you a lot of time, effort, and muscle strain.
The most important thing to remember about your forward
paddling, however is that you should only work on improving it
if you feel that you can't do everything that you want to be
able to do while you're in your kayak.
First, you should make sure that you have good posture in
your kayak. It's important that you sit up in your kayak
instead of leaning back. This way, you'll be able to make all
of your paddling strokes as powerful as possible. You should
also make sure that your feet are right up against the footrest
inside of your kayak. That way you'll have a more powerful
stroke than you would otherwise.
Next, you should pay attention to where the paddle goes into
the water. It should enter near where your feet are in the
kayak. You don't have to be completely precise, however, as it
is sometimes hard to figure out exactly where you want the
paddle to enter the water - and you will lose power if you
spend too much time second-guessing your strokes.
You should work on relaxing your grip on the kayak paddle,
as well, as this will make it easier for you to sustain your
paddling pace - and can prevent injuries.
It is also important to make sure that you are paddling
close to the kayak, and that your strokes are going deep. That
way, you'll be making the most efficient paddling strokes that
you can.
If you follow this advice, and work on strengthening the
parts of your body that get tired fastest, then you'll find
that your forward paddling improves.
About The Author: Jakob Jelling is the founder
of www.kayakhelp.com. Please visit his complete kayaking guide for
all skills and ages.
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