When rowing a kayak, it is important to use proper technique in order to get the most out of each stroke and control the kayak properly. Initially, most people use only their arms to paddle a kayak, which can be very tiring. Using the torso to provide more strength and performing the most efficient entry of the paddle blade into and out of the water, will make for better paddling. There are three basic strokes: the forward stroke, the backward stroke and the turn stroke.
Forward Stroke
Step 1
Grip the paddle with both hands slightly wider than shoulder width, and hold it directly in front of you. Ensure that the blades of the paddle are vertical. This is the starting position of each stroke.
Step 2
Reach forward and insert one side of the paddle into the water. Keep the paddle close to the side of the kayak. Do not reach too far forward, as you may lose your balance and capsize.
Step 3
Ensure that the paddle is flat in the water. Draw the blade through the water by turning your torso toward the side you are paddling on. Use your arms to smoothly guide the blade through the stroke.
Step 4
As the paddle reaches your hip region, lift the blade out of the water and return the paddle to the start position.
Step 5
Repeat these steps on the other side of the kayak. Continue to alternate the stroke from left to right in a smooth motion to move the kayak forward.
Backward Stroke
Step 1
Insert one paddle into the water near your hip region, keeping the paddle close to the side of the kayak.
Step 2
Ensure that the paddle is flat in the water. Push the blade through the water by turning your torso away from the side you are paddling on.
Step 3
Lift the blade out of the water as the paddle moves forward, and return the paddle to the start position.
Step 4
Repeat these steps on the other side of the kayak. Continue to alternate the stroke from left to right in a smooth motion to move the kayak backward.
Turning Stroke
Step 1
Reach forward and insert the paddle into the water on the side opposite the direction you wish to turn towards. Keep the paddle close to the side of the kayak.
Step 2
Draw the blade through the water the same as in the forward stroke. As the paddle reaches your hip region, lift the blade out of the water.
Step 3
Reach forward again on the same side and repeat the stroke.
Things You'll Need
- Kayak
- Kayak paddle
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