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Written by Ekolu Kalama
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Friday, 30 April 2010 19:57 |
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As told to Standup Paddle Magazine by Ekolu Kalama
The distance or power stroke is basically used by canoe paddlers when doing long runs, racing across open oceans or waterway sprints. By using the proper technique, applying power to your paddling and engaging your entire body into the stroke, you will be able to apply pressure against the competition and allow yourself quicker times when doing point-to-point paddling.
1 // In this shot, Ekolu will combine his 6’3” height with his paddle length of 87” to reach
out to the furthest point he can. This will set himself up for a powerful stroke. Notice how his left hand extends over the right side of his board. He will also be using his left lat, abs, back, shoulders, and arms to pull himself into the upright position. The same holds true while paddling on the other side.
2 // Now, you can see him leaning into a 75-degree angle, applying full body pressure
instead of using just his arms while his top hand is actually rotating in a circle as he strokes. On his right side his top-hand rotation goes counter-clockwise and on his left side he rotates clockwise. At this point he already has momentum and can fire off each stroke at a pretty rapid pace without struggling to find a constant rhythm or applying more energy than he should.
3 // Now it is time for the recovery, Ekolu is upright again with his blade angled in the feather position. He will direct his attention into the next stroke while maintaining his speed. If he wants to maintain speed, he minimizes power into his next stroke. If he wants to increase speed, he will push harder into it. For Ekolu, speed means he will be decreasing his race time and will be overtaking other paddlers.
The distance stroke also makes for a higher-quality paddle workout. Done correctly, it will make you into a much stronger
paddler.
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