Hi All. Wlcome to the Kayak Manual link. We will be adding to this fund of information as time permits and hope that you will contribute information and articles of interest when possible
mikearonoff@aol.com
KEYS TO KAYAKING – Mike Aronoff, CKAPCO.com
Quiet Boat: Your
boat should be steady(Not bobble). If your goal is to paddle straight ahead
or create graceful turns and smooth transitions blending strokes; then
heel control and a quiet, steady boat are keys to efficient paddling.
CPR:
All strokes have at least three parts: Catch, Power, Release.
Quiet Paddle: Your paddle should not create a lot of noise or splash.
Work on feeling how the paddle moves in and relates to the water.[CPR] Practice
quietly. Avoid pushing down or lifting water. Make your paddle
"stick" during the catch phase.
Move to the Paddle: The Boat (your hips) move to the paddle blade during a
stroke- not the paddle blade to you. With an “efficient stroke” the
paddle blade moves minimally through the water.
Power Stops at the Hip for the forward stroke – starts at the toes.
(catch)
Dynamic vs. Static: Dynamic stroke, power is applied to the
paddle by the paddlers movement/energy. Static stroke, the paddle is planted,
held firmly in place (catch). Power is applied to the paddle by the
movement/energy of the boat.
Separation of the body: Sit up straight and balance equally on your sitz
bones, for a strong pelvic base that will liberate your upper-body motion from
your lower. With arms and legs connected to a reliable center, tension
decreases and flexibility improves.
Dynamic seated position : Nose & navel over the centerline of the kayak .
Stay upright. Sit up straight with good posture for balance. The
eyes help maintain balance head up and look up. Look where you want to go.
Torso Rotation: Arms are connectors to the real source of power.
Incorporate torso rotation into your strokes. The torso muscles are the best
power source. Wind up and use them.
Paddlers’ Box: Extend your hands with paddle straight out from your
chest. Note Your arms , shoulders and paddle shaft create the "paddlers’
box." Use torso rotation to maintain this position [box] during
strokes. Power is maximized, shoulder safety is maintained. If you see your
hands things are usually good – if not…….
Breathing: Don't forget to breathe – let it go. Awareness of your
breathing (belly breathe) to minimize tension, enhance the flow of your strokes
and improve balance.
Intention: Intention is the beginning of every movement. Focus on a movement a
split second before you initiate. Visualize it; then do it. Look
where you want to go.
Less is often More: Go for quality not quantity. Practice maneuvers,
strokes, heeling and transitions slowly and precisely and then build up
speed/power.
Remember: "Only those who have the patience to do
simple things perfectly, ever acquire the skill to do difficult things
easily." -Johnann C. Schiller