Keep certain rules and paddling strategies in mind when you’re kayaking, and you can greatly increase your speed, efficiency and stamina. Focus on your paddle grip and stroke and your body’s position in the kayak until these elements become second nature to you. Always wear a live vest in the kayak, and stick to the buddy system—don’t kayak through rapids alone.
Holding the Paddle
Place your hands shoulder width apart on the paddle, and keep a relaxed grip on the paddle’s shaft. The beginning kayaker’s tendency to tightly grip the paddle can cause more pain, soreness and fatigue. You’ll increase your stamina by loosening your grip.
Paddle Stroke
Begin your paddle stroke in the water near where your toes sit in the kayak, and then pull the paddle in one long stroke toward you, stopping at the position of your hips. Do not just skim the paddle over the surface. Rather, submerge the whole paddle into the water so that you can feel the water’s resistance. Pull against that resistance in a full stroke to get more control over your kayak. Pull your paddle closely to you and the boat to keep the boat moving straight, and stroke the paddle farther away from the boat to make turns.
Push and Pull
The kayak paddle works as a rotating pivot, constantly moving both forward and backward. As you pull your paddle, stroke towards you on one side, as the other side of the paddle moves away from you. Take advantage of this motion by pushing against that side with your arm and torso to generate more power for your stroke. Continue this push and pull paddling technique and you’ll notice greater paddling speed and efficiency.
Balance
Improve your balance and control in the kayak by sitting upright with your back straight. Let your hips rotate as the kayak moves up and down over rapids or across the water, but keep your back straight. This position gives you more control over the kayak and helps you maintain balance. Leaning all the way back against your seat reduces your control and makes paddling more difficult.
About this Author
Lisa Porter has a B.A. in English from Amherst College. She began writing professionally in 2009. She writes for eHow, Answerbag and Trails Travel.
