Re: [Paddlewise] Trying too hard, paddling efficiency

In a message dated 1/31/01 7:12:53 PM, Rick.Sylvia_at_ferginc.com writes:

<< Can I assume that you are also pushing with the opposite arm, even though

you don't state it?  I'm just starting my second year, but I've read that

you get the best form and power when you "push", not when you "pull".  Or,

maybe it's when they work together.  In any event, I've struggled with that,

because it's a lot more natural for me to pull than push.  But, I've been

trying to acquire a comfortable, almost second nature, push, rather then

trying to muscle my way through the water with only a pull.  Aside from the

fact that push versus pull is only one of many factors related to form, am I

headed in the right direction? >>

    One BCU coach got me to think of pushing with the offside arm while the 
one-side arm stayed rigid. This forces the paddle out away from the boat 
during the stroke, reducing the chance of lifting water at the exit. Also 
it's harder to push too hard and it seems to increase the cadence and speed 
while the perceived effort remains the same. I would guess that you had a 
very good teacher, that taught you so much about forward stroke technique.

Jed
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