Correctly paddling a kayak, which looks like an elongated canoe, requires the application of correct technique. A kayaker uses a double-bladed paddle, which requires some upper-body strength since you paddle from a seated position in the kayak. However, proper technique is at least as important as upper body strength. Practicing correct paddling technique eventually leads to a stroke that is automatically efficient and powerful.
Preparation
To begin, sit all the way back in your kayak's seat with your knees comfortably bent. Don't straighten your knees too much or you may experience lower back pain, and don't bend them too much or you may strike your knees with the paddle. Find your hand placement on the paddle by placing your hands shoulder-width apart and centered on the paddle making sure that there is an equal amount of paddle shaft and blade beyond each hand.
Technique
The basic kayak paddle stroke is a forward stroke. According to Marty Grabijas, a kayaking instructor, there are three traits that are necessary for an effective forward paddling stroke: rotation of the upper body starting in the hips; a "silent and deliberate plant;" and applying the full force of the paddle during the first 7 to 8 inches of the stroke, keeping the paddle as vertical as possible. To plant the paddle in the water cleanly and strongly, your paddle's blade should enter the water without making a sound, close to the kayak as vertically as you can. Sit up straight and keep your grip on the paddle loose and aim to consistently plant your paddle near your toes every time. Avoid "bobbing" forward to make your plant. Once the plant of the blade is complete, prepare to pull the blade through the water by fully rotating your upper body starting the motion in your hips. Then, plunge the paddle deeper in the water and begin to pull the paddle's blade through the water. Stop pulling the blade through the water when the blade reaches your knees. Remove the paddle from the water and begin the plant on the other side of the kayak. Alternate paddle strokes from one side of the kayak to the other. To turn the kayak use a sweep stroke instead of the forward stroke. Allow your paddle to drift out in the shape of an arc, which will cause the front of the kayak to move away from the paddle.
Choosing a Paddle
Spend some to find the right kayak paddle for you so that you can take full advantage of effective paddling technique. Paddles differ in three main ways: blade shape and length; shaft shape and length and what materials were used to make the paddle. For instance, a larger paddle creates more resistance in the water and therefore it takes more effort to use a large-bladed paddle than a smaller one. It will take more strokes to use a long, narrow blade than a larger blade, but the paddler will not tire as quickly. Try different paddles to see which one you like. Remember, personal comfort with a paddle also plays a role in ensuring effective paddling technique.
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