[Paddlewise] Forward Stroke Clinic Report

Paddlewisers,

Today I held a forward stroke clinic for a couple of the kayaking clubs in 
Southern California.  The new president of one of the clubs asked that some 
members give classes for beginner kayakers.  I decided on a forward stroke 
clinic, because it would help new as well as more experienced kayakers.  I 
also felt that some of the local shops had good beginner programs, and a 
forward stroke clinic would be a good way to expand on them.

I didn't think hardly anyone was going to come, but I actually had 19 
kayakers show up.  They were all very nice, enthusiastic about kayaking, and 
for the most part, they were well equipped.

This was the first time I ever taught kayaking on any sort of formal basis, 
but I think I did an OK job.  After a land session, we went on the water in 
the harbor to practice.  I tell you, it is hard to get new kayakers to twist 
rather than use their arms when paddling.  We did (tried to do) the straight 
arm drill to help learn to twist, and it drove almost everyone crazy.  During 
the class, I saw a few improve a lot, a few more a little, and a bunch very 
little, but it does take time to learn the forward stroke.

Some in the group hadn't been out in the ocean yet.  With the weather calm, I 
took the opportunity to take the group to a buoy about a half mile out.  Once 
there, we took a break, and I did a bracing, sculling and rolling 
demonstration.  Then two others, a husband and wife, in singles, decided 
there were going to roll too.  I thought I was going to get a little carnage 
by seeing them wet exit, but they pulled the rolls off nicely.

The day was finished off by chatting around a pot luck lunch.

It was fun!

Duane
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