Page 7 - flipping-paddle-magazine

ThePaddler 12 By Dave Rossetter–paddlesport instructor at Glenmore Lodgey Dave Rossetter–paddlesport instructor at Glenmore Lodge B This article is all about the use of Fundamentals for moving sidewayshis article is all about the use of Fundamentals for moving sideways T Fundamentals Over the past years when introducing beginners to the sport and working with paddlers at all levels the following areas have been in my coaching: Posture These are known as: connectivity } Power transfer Fundamentals Feel What I perhaps didn’t do in the past was label them as such however, now this gives me a structure. The skills we learn in paddlesport are all about being able The use of Fundamentals Fundamentals for skill development to move the boat to a desired destination, preferably in a controlled, efficient, and economic fashion, in order to for moving sideways achieve this we need to: • Have an active posture, allowing the body to move freely, with the muscles sensitive to movement and free to act quickly. Whilst being able to effectively transfer our weight, changing the centre of gravity Draw and remaining in balance. • Be connected to our boat allowing us to react to the Moving the boat towards the paddle side. movements of the boat, paddles and water around Stroke used in canoes and kayaks. you. Pry This allows us to feel / anticipate the movement of the boat through the water and efficiently transfer power from the body to create movement of the boat. The Moving the boat away from the paddle side. paddler can perform strokes that generate power, Stroke predominantly used in canoes. turning and stability; control the speed, angle, edge and trim of their boat; and move efficiently and economically. Draw stroke Resulting in the controlled and efficient movement of the boat to achieve a desired outcome. • Good upright posture connected to the boat Regardless of the discipline being followed these four • Looking (upper body) in direction of travel areas keep us in control of the craft no matter what the • Hands over the water on the same side you are environment is doing. The ability to blend them and travelling towards change them to help you is vital for any boater. Doing • Vertical/upright paddle shaft as possible this means that we don’t rely on just arm power and therefore allow us to freely perform the strokes. • Blade in water throughout stroke This has been brought into the coach education courses right at UKCC Level 1 as a way to help new coaches deliver information but also as a way to observe and analyse performance. ThePaddler 13