Re: [Paddlewise] Paddle efficiency

From: Shawn Baker <shawnkayak_at_yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 21 May 2001 08:05:49 -0700 (PDT)
"Peter A. Chopelas" <pac_at_premier1.net> wrote:
> That is what I meant when I said the high aspect ratio paddle is more

> efficient for sea kayaking than the low aspect ratio "Euro" paddles. 

> The high aspect ratio paddle will use less power (fewer calories) 
> traveling the same distance at the same speed.  And that is a fact of

> fluid mechanics, not a theory or an opinion.

I would agree that biomechanically, a high aspect ratio paddle is more
efficient for paddling long distances.  It is not a fact of fluid
mechanics though--once you're talking about calorie usage and human
efficiency, you have ceased to discuss pure fluid mechanics.  

You're not using less power due to the paddle-water interface, but due
to the limits of the human end of the system.

Shawn

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Received on Mon May 21 2001 - 08:06:38 PDT

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