"Joseph Pylka" <jpylka_at_earthlink.net> wrote: > Well, keeping the paddle shaft vertical IS more efficient, but here in NJ > we have always taught to do so without bringing the arm higher than the > shoulder or perhaps the neck. Going higher almost always invites shoulder > dislocations or similar injuries. > This also goes for Duffeks.... That advice is common out on the west coast, also. Other factors to consider if you adopt a more vertical stroke style: 1. How wide is your yak? Maybe a narrower beam will allow an efficient vertical style without excessive rotator cuff strain. 2. How much blade area are you using? A more rapid cadence with smaller-faced blades may also help alleviate shoulder strain, with little loss of peak output. 3. How much torso rotation are you getting? Rotation at the waist can help get the paddle shaft over the center of the boat without over-straining the shoulder. In the end, some study of what people like Greg Barton are doing may help minimize rotator cuff abuse. -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************Received on Sat Jan 15 2005 - 16:28:12 PST
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