ThePADDLER 30
Photo 5
You can even use the pole to pull turns ( photo 5 ). Here I have both hands at the end of the pole and have swung the other end cross-deck . I was effectively using the pole for a cross-deck bow rudder or bow draw . Combined with a sweep on the other side , effective and tight turns are possible . And , of course , we can trail the pole and use it as a rudder ( photo 6 ).
Note : In all the photos , I keep my legs flexed to absorb and control movement in the canoe .
Like so much of our paddling in any craft , we can use edging to control or create turns or maintain stability on eddylines . Getting used to edging is vital . In one exercise , the feet are spread across the canoe , and you pump the weight from one foot to the other . The body remains upright , and it is merely a swift transfer of weight from foot to foot . Stability will vary from canoe to canoe .
Another helpful exercise ( photo 7 ) involves using the pole to provide a low brace to the water or , if you are cautious , to the river bed ; weight is then transferred to the right foot . The left toes are still in contact and are
Photo 6
ready to push down and flatten the canoe . The body is upright with the weight above the right foot and inside the canoe .
Once we start using the bed of the lake or river , then our grip on the pole needs to be thought about .
There are two basic grips , first a kayak grip ( photo 8 ) and second A baseball or rounders grip ( photo 9 ). It is this grip that will be used almost exclusively when poling off the bottom . Both hands have the thumbs on the top for a power grip . With the pole angled , you can push the canoe forwards . ( If it is too vertical , you will lift yourself rather than push the canoe .)
With the pole at 45 degrees , you can put effort into the push . In straightforward situations , the arms and body rotation do the work . When more power is needed , use your full weight by flexing the knees and dropping the body . Once your body has rotated , and the pole is at the end of the useful thrust , the canoe has forward speed . Steerage can be achieved by using the pole as a rudder .
Photo 8
Photo 9
Photo 7