The well considered discussion of paddle design, size, shape, and the mechanics of paddling has been highly informative. In the context of this considerable expertise I'd much appreciate guidance regarding emergency paddling procedures. Sometimes age, fatigue, poor conditioning, sudden exertion or any number of other factors leave us old-timers with sprains, strains, and other muscular debilitations. Sudden illness in the outback produces the same problem. Whatever the cause is is sometimes necessary to paddle with minimum exertion, to add one's effort to a stronger partner's in a tandem boat, or to get along as best one can on one's own when no alternatives exist. Of course we plan for these events -- practice, travel in groups, condition, pace ourselves and so forth. But sooner or later at least some of us have to keep our boats going when we are diminished in strength, coordination or both. So how can do it? Let's assume that injuries or illnesses are not totally debilitating - that the paddle can still be grasped and moved through a stroke of sorts albeit weakly. And let's assume that forward motion, not bracing, is our only concern. What then is the recommended paddle size and design, the best stroke, cadence, and style to move the kayak employing an absolute minimum of energy? Feebly yours, Rich *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
I'd say go with the flow! Usually I locate some easy take-outs when I plan a trip. If something goes wrong I'd take the nearest exit. I had a near death experience on Mt Rainier, and help was quite close by but I didn't know it. I pay closer attention to those details now. -- MZ website: http://members.home.net/mzuschlag *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
I'd say go with the flow! Usually I locate some easy take-outs when I plan a trip. If something goes wrong I'd take the nearest exit. I had a near death experience on Mt Rainier, and help was quite close by but I didn't know it. I pay closer attention to those details now. -- MZ website: http://members.home.net/mzuschlag *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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