At the beginning of a paddle stroke force is generated down and backwards, moving the kayak up and forwards (remember Newton’s 3rd law of motion – every action has an equal and opposite reaction). This is a positive paddle angle.

From the middle to the end of the stroke, force is applied to the paddle directly backwards, moving the boat forwards. This is also a positive paddle angle and most effective position for the paddle to be in.

If the paddle is pulled too far back, then the force on the paddle is upwards. The boat still move forwards but also downwards and you start lifting water which is very tiring and inefficient. This is a negative paddle angle and needs to be avoided. The other consequence of pulling the paddle too far back is that there is a tendency to pull yourself in!

We should aim to keep the paddle at a positive angle and remove it from the water before it moves into a negative angle.