Most people understand the general concept of how a paddle works, as the paddle is a relatively simple device. However, there are techniques that can turn the inefficient flailing of the amateur kayaker into focused and effective execution of proper kayak paddling. As with every vehicle you operate, it is important to be able to navigate in any direction in order to maintain the safety of yourself and others. To help you do this, there are techniques that will assure your kayak is always headed the right direction.
Forward Paddle
As basic as paddling forward seems, there are several pitfalls and misconceptions that can rob your stroke of efficiency. The RoguePaddler website hosts helpful tips on kayaking and offers these pointers for proper paddling. First, remember that paddling is not an arms-only activity. In actuality, a large percentage of the power in paddling should come from rotating your body. Next, push and pull with each stroke. This may seem contradictory but the fact is that applying forward pressure to the off-paddle hand as the other arm pulls back will increase the power of the stroke. Finally, to increase speed, avoid the temptation to just pull harder. Instead, keep your efforts consistent, but minimize the time between strokes. This will increase speed and help you avoid exhaustion.
Sweep Stroke Turn
Once you're moving ahead, it is important that you be able to maneuver. The sweep stroke is an effective technique for a smooth and significant change in course. The website BRT Insights gives outdoor advice and provides a good description of a sweep stroke turn's execution. In order to perform a right-hand turn, place the arms out straight, then rotate the paddle and plant the left blade far forward in the water next to the left side of the hull. Rotate your body left while maintaining your arm rigidity. Trace a half circle around and end with the blade next to the hull again, but aft of your seat. For smaller turns, the blade can be pulled from the water at any point in the arc once the desired bearing has been reached. For left-hand turns, simply perform the technique on the opposite side.
Reverse Paddle
When forward progress is not an option, there's only one way to go. The Kayak Help website offers these pointers for safe and effective navigation in the reverse direction. First, be sure to reverse the direction of the paddle blade if it is contoured for directional paddling. Next, plant the blade in the water at or behind your hips and firmly push back in order to get a long, effective stroke. Finally, don't forget to look where you're going. While the motions of paddling encourage a face-forward posture, make continuous checks over your shoulders as you head backward.
Stopping
If you are mastering a smooth, strong forward paddle, it's important that you are able to come to a quick stop if there is an obstacle in your path. Kayak Help describes the proper way to bring your cruising kayak to a rapid standstill. Like a forward paddle, perform strokes on both sides of the kayak to avoid turning. Make backward paddles, much like when reversing, but keep them short and rapid. Lean into the stroke and be sure to keep the whole paddle blade in the water for maximum efficacy.
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