Re: [Paddlewise] Better Edging

Mark,

> It just seemed like I was getting
> less heel than other people and I was wondering if  I was doing something
> incorrect.

   Try these tips:
As you edge, rotate your body toward the direction of your intended turn
(toward the high knee).
At the same time, lean slightly forward.
Also, cock your head toward your high knee -- in other words, over the
boat's center of gravity.



>   It could just be that  in the waves I am just too tense to
> get even the small heel that I get on flat water.
You can address that universal tenseness with the following exercise:

Imagine an "edging scale" from 0 to 5, with 0 being upright and 5 being just
short of the tipping point.

Now, call out a number to yourself and edge to that point. Vary the
positions, from easy to squirrely and back again. Stay comfortable, but
through repetition get CONSISTENT in hitting your marks and being STABLE in
those positions. (Don't rush this: consistency is the key). Advance at a
comfortable pace.

You'll want to start this while stationary, but quickly incorporate forward
movement into the drill.  Paddle for 50 - 100 yards at each of the
positions.  As you get more consistent, seek out some chop and carry on.
Pretty soon, you'll be very comfortable on edge.


Bob V

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