Do you ever feel like a pretzel when you’re kayaking? It’s not your fault! There are many different aspects to the paddling position, and it can be hard to know what to do. In this blog post, we’ll break down the different elements of the paddling position so you can feel comfortable and confident on the water.
First, we’ll start with how to sit properly in your kayak
1. Your sitting position in a kayak
- You want to sit in the kayak with your back straight and your head held high. This will help you maintain control of the kayak and keep you from tiring out too quickly.
- Adjust the back support of your seat as needed for optimal comfort.
- Position your feet slightly spread apart on in foot pedal
- Make sure your legs are slightly bent at the knees and staggered for stability.
Once you have your sitting position sorted out, it is time to think about the correct hand position on your paddle.
2. Your hand position on the kayak paddle when paddling:
Before learning the correct hand position on your kayak paddle, you probably have decided whether you are using a feathered or unfeathered paddle.
The use of a fettered or unfettered paddle is totally a matter of choice.
If you are using a feathered paddle (the angle of the paddle blades are offset from one another);
- Position both hands on the shaft about 6 to 12 inches away from each paddle blade.
- Check if your hands are spaced out well and properly positioned by lifting your paddle onto your head. Your elbows should be at shoulder height and at 90-degree angles.
- With this hand position, as you take a stroke with a feathered paddle, the other blade will slice through the air, which helps you to reduce wind resistance and may help you to paddle more efficiently in windy conditions.
Now, if you are using an unfeathered paddle (the angle of the paddle blades is the same);
- Place your hands on the shaft 6 to 12 inches away from the paddle blades.
- Similar to how you check to see if your hands are spaced well on a paddle with feathered blades, lift the paddle on your head and make sure your elbows are at shoulder height and at 90-degree angles.
- This type of paddle allows you to hold your hands low if you are keen on using a long paddle.
- It is also better with the wrist, as it helps you to keep them straight.
Note that in very windy conditions, some experts recommend using a feathered paddle to help reduce wind resistance.
Regardless of the type of paddle you are using, it is important to maintain a proper grip on your kayak paddle.
3. Correct kayak paddle grip
When holding the paddle shaft, your grip on the paddle shaft is very important, as having the correct technique will minimize fatigue, help you stay comfortable during your strokes, and help with your stroke quality.
Here are tips on how to properly grip your paddle;
- If you were using a feathered paddle for example, and you are right-handed, your right hand becomes your control hand, and your left hand becomes your non-control hand.
- But if you are left-handed, your left hand becomes your control hand and your right hand becomes your non-control hand.
- With your control hand, grip your paddle shaft (6 to 12 inches from the blade) securely, but relaxed.
- Your non-control hand should grip the shaft 6 to 12 inches from the blade. Again, make sure that you maintain a relaxed grip on the paddle shaft with your non-control hand.
- Align your big knuckle with the edge of the paddle blade.
As you take each stroke with your control hand, your loosened grip on the non-control hand allows for shaft rotation so the blade is correctly immersed in the water.
Once you have your grip on the paddle properly secured but relaxed with your control hand, while also maintaining a relaxed grip with your non-control hand, it is time to think about how to use your paddle for efficient strokes.
4. Other tips and tricks to improve your paddling position
There are a few other things you can do to help improve your paddling position and make your kayaking experience more enjoyable. These include:
- Getting regular exercise will not only help to build your stamina and strength, and improve your paddling form but also help to enhance your paddling technique.
- Ensuring that your gear is properly secured and checking the equipment before each kayaking trip can help you feel confident and prepared for a safe and enjoyable paddling experience
- Engaging your core muscles to help maintain good posture and balance while paddling.
With these tips, you will have a good start as you hit the water to practice on your paddling technique.
Watch this video on how to use a kayak paddle and for some tips on basic paddling postion.
5. Final thoughts
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kayaker, it is important to maintain the proper position while paddling. With the right technique and the right gear, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable kayaking experience that will help you to improve your skills. So, get out there and start paddling!
Leave a comment below and let us know what your favorite tips are for paddling in the correct position! Do you have any other tips to share? We’d love to hear from you. Happy kayaking!
