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7. Whichever paddle you choose, you will use the same grip and
positioning for all strokes.
8.3.3 How to paddle
For all strokes, maintain an upright posture, with the footrest and seat
back adjusted as described on page 8.
Forward stroke
• Start with the paddle oriented as described above.
• Rotate to your left at the torso, and then place two-thirds of the
paddle blade in the water; imagine you’re stabbing the water.
• Rotate your torso toward your right with the paddle in the water. Repeat
on the opposite side, alternating strokes on the right and left. You want
to use both hands equally—push with one hand while you pull with the
other.
Reverse stroke
To stop, slow down, or move backward, do the same stroke in
reverse. There is no need to flip the paddle backwa
rd.
8.4 MANEUVERING A KAYAK
Rudder turn
- Once you have forward momentum, place your paddle in the water just
behind your hip.
- The resistance and torsion will cause your boat to rotate around the side
the paddle is on.
Sweep-stroke turn
- Place the paddle in the water near the bow (front).
- Then make a large arc-shaped motion toward the stern (back).
- The sweep stroke can be done in a forward or reverse manner.
- To turn the boat in a circle, do a forward sweep stroke on one side and a
reverse sweep stroke on the other side.
WARNING
Practice new strokes in calm, shallow water.
WARNING
Kayakers, especially beginners and novices, can be particularly
vulnerable to adverse weather and water conditions. Because of their
light weight and limited speed, kayaks can be especially sensitive to
wind, waves, and current. Always be aware of your paddling abilities,
the water/weather conditions, and the limitations of your kayak, and
use common sense and good judgment for your own safety.
