forward ; it ’ s the ability to tilt that pelvis forward and keep the obliques ( tummy muscles ) and hip flexors strong so that we don ’ t lean back or overarch the spine . Your leg braces will make all the difference here and in width to your seat . Having a good fitting backrest that is strong enough to protect the back against these inertias is crucial on white water or surf to stop hyperextension . We want to keep the pitch as neutral as possible during flat water to avoid losing energy with micro stalling ; we want to glide instead .
To control roll , we need to balance well in sitting , even with our eyes closed . We need to be symmetrical , but we also need to balance on one sitting bone when needed and have the lateral control of our body to hold that balance point . To do this , we would again need a good fitting set of thigh braces in white water , but in outrigger and marathon , it comes down to lots of lateral balance training drills and practice , e . g . lifting the armour in OC , paddling with eyes closed in open water , brace and support strokes , learning to move the craft sideways and practising on both sides , not just your favourite . Ideally , do this in a more stable craft first and build up , don ’ t go too narrow too soon , compromising the paddling technique .
Back rest seating systems allow the spine to be held in a better alignment as shown in this picture of two sea kayakers . Photo : trek6500 - Adobe Stock
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