Re: [Paddlewise] Switching paddle types

----- Original Message -----
From: "Nick Schade" <schade_at_guillemot-kayaks.com>

> The reason to do a sliding stroke is to get more power out of a
> single stroke. You state that this is sometimes required for the
> paddle to get out of a jam. However, the typical euro paddle has this
> power without the need for a sliding stroke. They are used in
> whitewater after all. If a sliding stroke is needed, it would be
> hoped that it does it well. But if it is not needed, it is still
> beneficial if it is possible.
>
> Why is it a stretch to think that a sliding stroke couldn't be as
> fluid as with a GP. With a GP your hand needs to open up, with a euro
> it doesn't. A barely perceptible cocking of the wrist takes care of
> the feathering, and you just let the shaft slide. I guess it depends
> on what you consider fluid, but you seem to suggest the euro sliding
> stroke is as graceful as a pig on rollerskates. As with the GP, with
> practice it is very fluid and effortless. Sure it takes practice, but
> it does with a GP as well.
> Nick
> --
> Nick Schade

I tend to side with Nick with no disrespect to the GP school of thought.
Another powerful way of using what is already a powerful paddle, i.e. the
Europaddle, is to switch modes between touring mode and power mode...and it
does not involve sliding.  The normal touring mode with an EP is one in
which (without getting into elaborate details of the stroke) you are doing
body rotation etc. with the paddle being basically rotated around a pivot
point about a comfortable bent arm distance in front of you (again a
simplification...I know a lot more is going on).  That touring mode stroke
can be maintained forever with little strength and stamina needed.  The
power mode is one in which the arms are kept fairly stiff and only slightly
bent if at all.  The paddle is then driven into and through the water.  It
is a powerful stroke that resembles what racers do.  It is hard to maintain
for long unless you are in top conditions (they are) but it will power you
out any jam.

ralph diaz

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