Kayaking is a fun and adventurous water sport that can be enjoyed solo or with friends. However, one of the most common challenges kayakers face is keeping their kayak straight while paddling. Paddling in a straight line is essential to manoeuvre your kayak effectively and maintain control over it. In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips on.
1. Position Yourself Correctly
The first step to paddling a kayak straight is to position yourself correctly in the kayak. Sit with your back straight and your feet flat on the footrests. Ensure that your hands are placed at shoulder-width on the paddle, and your paddle shaft is perpendicular to the water.
2. Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
Keeping your eyes focused will help you to maintain a straight line while paddling. Focus on a distant point on the horizon such as a tree, rock or buoy, and paddle towards it.
3. Use Correct Paddling Technique
Using the correct paddling technique is crucial to paddling a kayak straight. Start by inserting the paddle in the water at a 90-degree angle to the kayak. The power phase of the stroke is the most critical part of paddling. Pull the paddle back using your upper body and core, keeping the paddle blade vertical. Rotate your torso and hips to ensure maximum paddle coverage. Once the paddle reaches your hips, lift the blade out of the water and repeat the process.
4. Practice Bracing
When paddling a kayak, small adjustments can make a massive difference in maintaining a straight line. You can use a brace to keep your kayak from drifting. A brace is a simple manoeuvre that involves placing your paddle blade flat on the water’s surface perpendicular to the kayak. This technique helps to stabilise the kayak and prevent it from turning.
5. Mind Your Sensitivity
Finally, be sensitive to your paddle’s movement. Pay attention to your paddle’s direction and make quick, small paddle strokes to keep your kayak on course. Continually check your course to ensure that you are on the desired route.
Paddling a kayak straight requires proper positioning, correct paddling technique, bracing, sensitvity and a focus on a distant point. With these useful tips, you can improve your kayaking skills and enjoy the sport to the fullest. Remember to try out these tips on calm waters before taking it out on more challenging water bodies. Stay safe and have fun paddling!