Paddling Techniques & Skills Flashcards

Which technique is used to move a canoe sideways toward a dock without changing its heading?

Answer: Draw stroke

The draw stroke pulls the hull laterally toward the paddle blade, moving the canoe sideways while maintaining its heading.

When performing a low brace, where should the paddle blade be relative to the water surface?

Answer: Nearly flat on the water surface with the non-power face down

In a low brace, the back face of the blade rests nearly flat on the water, providing a platform to push against and prevent capsizing.

What is the primary purpose of the C-stroke in solo canoe paddling?

Answer: To maintain forward momentum while keeping the canoe tracking straight on the onside

The C-stroke combines a draw at the catch with a forward stroke and ends with a pry, allowing a solo paddler to go straight without switching sides.

In tandem canoe paddling, which paddler is primarily responsible for steering?

Answer: Stern paddler

The stern paddler controls direction because their paddle has the greatest leverage over the pivot point of the canoe.

Which paddle stroke is most efficient for making a quick, sharp turn toward the paddle side in a kayak?

Answer: Forward sweep

A forward sweep arcs from bow to stern on one side, rotating the kayak toward the paddling side in a single powerful motion.

What adjustment should an instructor emphasize when a student's forward stroke causes consistent turning to the offside?

Answer: Paddle closer to the hull with a more vertical shaft

A vertical shaft with the blade close to the hull maximizes forward propulsion and minimizes the lateral force that causes the boat to turn.

When edging a kayak to initiate a turn, which way should the boat be tilted to turn left?

Answer: Edge right (tilt toward right)

Edging right (lifting the left knee) carves the hull so the rocker turns the kayak to the left.