The paddle is such an important component for every kayaker because it provides the most direct contact with the water. It translates a paddler's energy into input for accelerating forward, changing direction, stopping, or turning. We've already discussed how to choose a paddle, so now let's look at how to use it.
Determining Your Control Hand
To start off, if you are paddling "feathered" (with the two blades of your paddle at different angles), you need to decide which your control hand is. In general, if you are right-handed, your right hand will be your control hand. Likewise the left hand will be control hand for left-handed paddlers. This "control" hand keeps a firm grip on the shaft at all times, which is why it is also referred to as the "glue" hand. The control hand's grip should never change, whether you're forward paddling, back paddling, or performing any other stroke. The knuckles of your control hand should be aligned along the same plane as that side's paddle blade. After taking a stroke with the blade by your control hand, you'll loosen your grip with the opposite hand, which is often referred to as the "grease" hand, so that you can rotate the shaft within it. This rotation is necessary to accommodate the "feather," or "twist," of your paddle, and lets you place the next blade in the water squarely. This loosening of the "grease" hand, and the rotation of the shaft within it, takes place between each stroke.
If you're using a paddle with no feather/twist, you won't need to worry about rotating the shaft between strokes. Many people find this more intuitive and natural than a feathered paddle stroke. Try it both ways and go with what feels most comfortable for you.
Determining Your Grip
Your grip on the paddle shaft will also have a big impact on how effective your strokes are. Your grip on the paddle should be secure but light, with your hands equal distances from the blades. A light grip will let you paddle more comfortably for longer, and will help you avoid overuse injuries such as tendonitis in the wrist.
To figure out how far your hands should be apart, and to establish the best hand position on the shaft, try lifting your paddle up onto your head. Once your arms are bent at an angle of approximately ninety degrees, your grip will be about right. This hand placement gives you the best mix of control and power.
This is a segment from a new book by Ken Whiting and Alex Matthews, called `Recreational Kayaking - An Essential Guide'. For more information and to see a sample of the book, visit The Heliconia Press website - www.helipress.com
Ken Whiting is a World Champion Kayaker and the author and producer of an award winning series of instructional kayaking books and videos. In 2000 he was recognized by Paddler Magazine as one of their `Paddlers of the Century'. For more information, visit www.helipress.com