PADDLER 89
FREESTYLE, PLAYING THE RIVER
Using playboating techniques to enhance your overall paddling ability. Freestyle is an advanced skill that many paddlers begin to explore once they’ re comfortable with basic whitewater techniques. It’ s an exciting way to build on your skills while adding an element of fun to your paddling.
BOAT CONTROL: EDGING & ROTATION
Mastering movement and efficiency on the water. Once you’ ve established your goals, it’ s time to focus on the core of kayaking: boat control. By honing your technique early on, you’ ll build the essential skills needed for all other aspects of the sport.
BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Overcoming fear and pushing your boundaries on the river. After mastering the fundamentals, many paddlers face challenges with confidence – especially when pushing their limits. This article will help you tackle those hurdles head-on.
PADDLING WITH THE RIGHT CREW
The importance of teamwork, safety, and support. As your confidence grows, learning to paddle with others and understanding group dynamics becomes essential. This article will cover the key aspects of teamwork, safety, and mutual support on the water.
QUICK TIPS FOR WHITEWATER KAYAKING: GET READY FOR YOUR PROGRESSION
As you prepare for the exciting journey of improving your whitewater skills, here are some quick tips to help you set yourself up for success. The essentials we need before we dive deeper into goal setting in the next issue. These foundational steps will help you paddle comfortably and efficiently from the start.
BOAT OUTFITTING – IS YOUR GEAR WORKING FOR YOU?
Tip: Before you get on the water, take a good look at your kayak outfitting. Is everything adjusted for your body? Pay special attention to your footplate position, hip pads, and trim. Proper outfitting is crucial for your comfort and performance on the water.
Why it works: A correctly fitted kayak improves your control and comfort. If your trim is off, your footplate isn’ t correctly positioned, or your backrest is ratcheted up too tight, it can affect your paddling, making it harder to perform key skills like edging, boofing, and rolling.
What to check: Make sure your footplate allows your legs to engage properly, that your hip pads give a secure connection to your boat, that your knees / thighs are correctly engaged and that you’ re not too low or too high in your seat. A small adjustment here can make a big difference.
PADDLER 89