
Welcome to this week's deep dive into paddling technique, where we focus on the pull phase—one of the most crucial aspects of paddling efficiency. Last week, we explored the intricacies of the catch. Today, let's correct common mistakes during the pull to enhance your power and stability on the water.
Common Mistakes in the Pull Phase
- Lack of Commitment: Many paddlers, especially beginners, fail to fully commit their body weight during the pull, leading to a less powerful stroke.
- Rapid Loss of Blade Angle: A quick transition from a positive to a negative blade angle reduces the effectiveness of the pull.
- Staying Overloaded Too Long: Some paddlers maintain their loaded position too long, limiting the use of larger muscle groups and relying instead on smaller muscles.
Correcting These Errors
Understanding and correcting these mistakes begins with observing the pros. Here’s how:
- Video Analysis: Follow top paddlers on social media and analyze their technique in videos, focusing on how the paddle moves through the water.
- Land Drills: Simulate the correct paddle positions on land. Use a full-length mirror or video feedback to refine your posture and technique.
Implementing Changes
Start with short, focused land drill sessions—about 10 minutes a day, three times a week. These drills will build muscle memory and confidence that you can carry back to the water.
Conclusion
Don’t underestimate the value of offseason training. It's the perfect time to refine your technique and return to the water ready to excel.
Larry Cain, Paddle Monster Head Coach
Larry Cain began his career in 1974 at the Oakville Racing Canoe Club, now the Burloak Canoe Club, in Oakville, Ontario. Cain competed in three Summer Olympics, winning a gold medal in the C-1 500 m, and a silver medal in the C1 1000 m events. He also won a silver medal in the C-1 1000 m event at the 1989 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships in Plovdiv. In 1984, he was made a Member of the Order of Canada. In 1997, he was inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. A trail in Oakville has been named in his honour running along the town's waterfront where Cain trained. He worked as a coach, preparing paddlers for the Olympic Games in Rio. In 2016 Cain co-founded Paddle Monster.
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