Now let’s practice some dry strokes. There are several types of strokes that we can make. Regular forward power strokes, the kind you will use most often when going from place to place. Sweep strokes, these strokes will turn the nose of your boat in a desired direction. Draw strokes, the kind you will use to move the boat side to side. Reverse strokes, the kind of strokes you will use to travel backwards.
The first type of stroke to consider is the basic forward power stroke. You will be using this stroke often so you want to do it right. To properly drive the paddle, you want to slightly bend forward and dip the paddle into the water, then draw the paddle rearwards, parallel to the boat’s length. As you pull the paddle with your front hand, your rear hand comes over the top and pushes the shaft (adding more strength to the stroke). Next, the opposite blade is dipped into the water on the other side of the boat and a similar stroke is taken. When paddling, your hands should almost look like they are pedaling a bike.
Another thing we have to consider is the fact that our kayaks have no keels, like regular boats, therefore it is imperative that we use symmetric and straight strokes. Believe it or not, one of the hardest things to do as a beginner is paddle a kayak in a straight line. To help with this, here are some hints. Number one: Make sure that when you grip the paddle, both of your hands are approximately the same distance from the shaft. Also, by using both arms during each stroke, you should be able to give each stroke equal power.
The next most useful stroke, is the sweep stroke. This stroke is used to get your boat properly positioned in the current. The way to execute a sweep stroke is to again lean a little forward and dip your blade near the nose of the boat (power side away from the boat) Note as you place the paddle, your hips should be swiveling so that your front shoulder faces forward. Next, you want to sweep a half circle in the water. (*Actually, you want the blade to stay where it is and by rotating your hips, the boat should turn just about 180 degrees.)
The draw stroke is used to move your boat around in close quarters, to avoid obstacles, and other boaters. The way to execute this stroke is to reach out to the side, dip the paddle in the water with the power blade facing the boat, and then pull the paddle towards the boat.
Lastly, you occasionally need to move backwards. The best stroke for this is the reverse stroke. This is similar to the power stroke, just backwards. Also, this is the one time when it is OK to move your right hand and rotate the paddle. (You will want to reverse the power blade to properly execute this stroke.)