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Step 1
Maintain proper hand position on the paddle at all times. Place the paddle across your lap so it's centered. Then, keeping your arms shoulder width apart, place both hands on the paddle. Keeping a hold of the paddle in this position will give you the most power with the least amount of energy.
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Step 2
Move straight ahead by gently paddling. When you try to use more power to paddle faster, you generally waste energy and move the water around more without adding much speed to your course. To continue straight, keep the paddle in the water in a straight line with your hips or in front of them. Moving the paddle behind your hips is how the kayak is steered and turned.
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Step 3
Use the forward sweep stroke to turn the kayak while maintaining current speed. With the forward sweep stroke you will put the paddle in the water on the opposite side of the kayak in which you want to turn. If you want to turn right, the paddle on the left side of the kayak will turn you. Sweep the paddle lightly in the water and push it away from the kayak in order to turn the kayak in the direction you wish to go.
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Step 4
Drag the paddle on one side of the kayak to turn your kayak towards that direction and slow it down. This turn maneuver is best used in tighter and more calm water places. Simply place the paddle on the side of the kayak that you want to turn. Push the paddle far behind your hip and apply pressure. This will slowly turn the kayak and reduce your speed at the same time.
