Re: [Paddlewise] speed with versus against the current

Dave wrote;

(Large SNIP)

>
>As you slide across the shear line onto water which is going AGAINST
>your motion, the momentum of the paddler/boat system will maintain your
>velocity for a second or so.  BUT, because the water is now sliding past
>your boat at a greater relative velocity, you will find that
>(momentarily) paddling gets "easier" at the *same* cadence you had
>before.  In other words, (momentarily) the paddle force drops -- that's
>why it feels "easier."  (This is like the effect which occurs as one
>briskly walks on fixed ground and steps onto a treadmill moving AGAINST
>your direction -- it feels like your feet will fly out from underneath
>you!  Try it!)

I wish I had said that. The analogy is apt. Just last week I was at the
Milwaukee airport and almost fell on my butt for this reason. Can't talk
and walk at the same time :-)

Wish I had your way with words Dave.

Cheers,
John Winters
Redwing Designs
Specialists in Human Powered Watercraft
http://home.ican.net/~735769/

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