ThePADDLER 64
Yaw is more tricky to consider . It ’ s mainly due to the paddle stroke and how we transmit the forces through the body to the footplates or seat . For example , the sweep stroke is a classic example of a yaw move . Let ’ s take a beginner ; they can sometimes have a lovely power stroke and can generate lots of forward momentum through the water however fail to turn . If the spinal posture becomes floppy during the sweep , they give away their energy into the movement give .
For example , if they are over rotating their body , side bending or make their arms go like spaghetti , they absorb the energy created instead of transferring it to the craft . If , however they keep the box of the body strong by using their slings and controlling their S- shape , they can allow the wind up to transmit from the paddle through the body and down to their feet , resulting in the nose of the kayak or canoe to turn away from their paddle .
So we ’ ve learnt that really to be a good paddler , everything we do influences our technique , especially our sitting posture . Enjoying our weekend adventures or winning our next race is not all about time paddling forward . It ’ s also about core , balance , moving in all directions , moving in / out of our base of support , being comfortable sitting , and having flexibility for the type of board , kayak and canoe we wish to use . That ’ s right ; I did say board because SUP isn ’ t always about standing ; there are times when we need to sit and be a dynamic paddler here too .
Enjoy folks !
A strong attacking core ‘ box ’ helps the paddler to remain stable . If we lean back or out of our base we can be unstable on white water features Photo : Ammit - Adobe Stock