Here is part 2 in our series on outrigger paddling technique. If you missed part 1 you can find it here.
Outrigger Paddling Technique Part 2
Paddling technique is continually under review and development. Consequently there are a wide range of differing ideas about what constitutes good technique, however everyone agrees that all paddlers in a canoe should have the same technique. The following Paddling Phases can be used as a general guide.
Set Up Phase
The stroke commences.
- -Maximum reach and twist with the paddle blade just out of the water.
- -Paddle blade perpendicular to canoe hull.
- -Lower hand around 1 hand width from the start of the blade face.
- -Top hand should not be outside the canoe.
- -Bottom arm with minimal bend and locked.
- -Top arm slightly bent and locked.
- -Leading leg (paddle side) extended and firmly planted. Offside leg bent under the seat.
- -Both legs (knees) braced against canoe to lock the paddler in.
- -Straight back, possibly a small forward lean.
- -Head up.
- -Basically your arms and shoulders should form a “big C”.
Entry Phase
Plant the blade. Push the blade cleanly into the water.
- -Everyone at the same time.
- -Drop bottom shoulder to move arms down and drive the full blade into the water up to the neck.
- -Strive for a clean entry (no plonking) by maintaining the paddle perpendicular to the canoe and entering the water at the speed (horizontal paddle movement) of the canoe.
- -At this stage you are not pulling the canoe just getting the blade planted.
Next week:
Outrigger Paddling Technique Part 3
