Paddling Tips - Paddling Technique
This is a collection of all the paddling tips under the "Paddling Technique" category.
Click on the title to see an excerpt of the tip.
Click on the `Read More` link in the excerpt to see the full tip.
Wing paddle advantages
Jackson et al. (1992) carried out a number of tests and calculated that wing paddles had an efficiency of 89% versus 75% for a standard euroblade (flat paddle). Therefore consider using a wing paddle when paddling a K1. With good technique, you will find that you use 14% less effort! Wing paddles ‘grip’ the water…
Emergency communication
Whenever you go paddling, you should always carry a means of contacting the emergency services. The equipment you should carry depends on the environment. On the river I always carry a fully charged mobile ‘phone. Don’t rely on others in the group carrying a ‘phone. Even if your ‘phone is ‘waterproof’ I recommend keeping it…
Paddling in thunderstorms
The risk of thunderstorms is increasing with climate change and are most likely to occur in spring. Although not that common, thunderstorms are the most dangerous weather event and you’re particularly vulnerable on the water, so it’s worth thinking about the action you should take if caught in one. Firstly, it’s important to re-emphasise the…
River flow
As I’m sure everyone is aware, the Environment Agency displays stream warning boards at locks when the river flow reaches certain levels. When red or yellow boards are displayed the EA advises unpowered boats (i.e. us) not to navigate. As these warnings are advisory, rather than mandatory, you will need to make a decision on…
Waterbourne diseases
Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis): is an infection caught through contact with infected animal urine, mainly from rodents. The incidence may be higher after high rainfall and runoff. The symptoms are very similar to flu, and can occur anytime up to 3 weeks after paddling.If you develop symptoms, make sure your doctor is aware of your symptoms…
Landing a K1
What’s the best way to approach the pontoon/bank so that you land like a pro? We need to be able to come alongside the pontoon or bank so that we’ve stopped completely and are close enough to be able to step out. With our racing kayaks, it’s easy to come in at too shallow an…
Paddling in a straight line
A couple of members have mentioned that they struggle to paddle a sea kayak in a straight line. One solution is to use a skeg (see the tip on using a skeg) but this is a poor solution as that’s not what a skeg is designed for, except in certain situations. If you find it…
CLAP
No, not ‘The clap’! C.L.A.P. is an acronym most kayak leaders will be very familiar with but it’s useful to practice C.L.A.P principles whether you’re leading a group or you are a group member. This is something that Leaders of Improvers sessions and other trips will practice. CLAP stands for: Communication: How are you going…
Using spraydecks
Our club has two different types of spraydeck: Spraydecks for K1s/K2s can be used by anyone. They keep you warmer in winter and help to keep water out of your cockpit – highly recommended in winter. There are a couple of different designs, one with a zip and the other without. If the deck has…
Cold water shock
If we do capsize, one of the risks we can face at any time of year, but particularly when water temperature is still very low, is cold water shock. If water temperature is below 15 degrees C (and it usually is!), cold water can affect your breathing and ability to swim if you capsize. The…