Canoe Forward Stroke: Perfect This Basic Paddle Stroke

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Perfecting the Canoe Forward Stroke

 

image of Canoe Forward Stroke techniqueAlthough some people consider canoeing a simple or natural activity, proper form can make the sport safer, easier and more enjoyable. The canoe forward stroke is the first stroke that a beginning paddler should learn.

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Seven Steps to Perfect The Forward Canoe Stroke:

  • Be sure to hold the canoe paddle properly and to sit up straight while paddling.
  • Begin the canoe forward stroke by raising the paddle out of the water and bringing the top hand up high (at or above head-high). The shaft of the paddle should be nearly vertical to the water and not diagonal across the body.
  • Push the lower hand forward, reaching the paddle blade toward the front of the canoe. Again, be sure to sit up straight.
  • Place the paddle blade into the water ahead of your body. Keep the face of the blade perpendicular to the direction of the forward stroke.
  • Pull the paddle along the side of the canoe in a straight line. Allow the top hand to push forward and down while the bottom hand pulls back.
  • Use your torso and upper body rotation to aid in the stroke and give the most power. You should not use your arms as much as you use the rotation of your body.
  • When the blade is past your body, bring the blade out of the water and return to step #1 to begin the canoe forward stroke again.

Tips:

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Canoe Forward Stroke: Perfect This Basic Paddle Stroke

  • In a 2 person canoe, the person in the front should paddle on one side of the canoe, while the back paddler should keep the canoe moving straight by paddling on either side of the canoe, and by using other strokes such as the ‘j-stroke’.


  • By switching sides often you don’t put too much stress on one arm.


  • Switch whichever arm is the top arm and whichever arm is the bottom arm as needed to give yourself an even workout.


  • It is most efficient to paddle on the left side of the canoe when the right hand at the top of the paddle.


  • It is most efficient to paddle on the right side of the canoe when the left hand at the top of the paddle.

 

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Equipment needed:

Canoe

Canoe Paddle

PFD or Life-vest

 


 

Other Canoeing and Kayaking Articles:

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