More Paddling Quiz Answers

October-November 1999

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web

by Wendell Phillips

Here is the second set of answers to some of the questions from Wendell's quiz (April/ May 99 issue). The italicized portion shows the questions as we printed them. For the complete list of questions go to Self Evaluation Quiz:

On lateral movements with a kayak like the draw stroke and sculling draw, describe the most favorable and efficient position of the hull and the position of the lower body.

Answer: The most efficient position of the hull in lateral movements is to subtly present it the direction the kayak is moving to by edging. The body remains upright while the thigh and knee presses upward on the side the blade is working on, creating less resistance as the water passes under the hull.

Explain two reasons why we rotate our torsos to face the direction we are moving on lateral movements like the draw stroke and the sculling draw.

Answer: To efficiently move a kayak sideways with a draw stroke or sculling draw, it is essential that the shaft remain relatively vertical to side slip the boat to the paddle. By rotating our torso the direction the kayak is moving, the top hand is over the water. This is a good position to minimize spilling water off of the end of the blade during the pull and also enables the arms to have more range of motion.

When we paddle forward it is important not to cross our leading arm over the center of the kayak. This can set the blade up to lift water on retrieval.

What paddle stroke is good to initiate before using a bow rudder and a low brace turn?

Answer: A forward sweep on the opposite side.

Opening the pushing hand (leading arm) during a forward stroke allows the paddle to pivot lengthwise in the hand rather than forcing your wrist to bend laterally.

Name three principal factors in wave growth.

Answer: The distance the wind is traveling over the water (fetch), the actual wind speed, and how long it's been blowing.

Wendell Phillips runs his kayak company out of Peachland. He works on BC interior and coastal waters in the summer and instructs and guides for Ocean Trek Kayaking on the South China Sea in the winter months. He is certified with the Sea Kayaks Guides Alliance of BC and is a regular speaker at kayak symposiums in Canada and the U.S.