Video: How to Switch Edges while Kayaking

In this free kayaking video tutorial an expert will demonstrate and discuss how to switch edges when edging in a kayak.

Video Transcript

We've just talked about paddling on edge in a circle, but when you go down the river you don't always go in one direction. So we have to figure out how to switch directions the other way so you can circle in the other direction. It's called switching edges it's really all about timing and looking where you want to go. So I'm going to paddle away from you and I'm going to do a figure 8. In the center of the figure 8 I'm going to switch my edge. So take a look, back up a little bit! I'm going to come on back to you and we'll figure out how to do this. So the key to switching edges is doing some sort of corrective stroke to actually turn the boat. In this case I'm doing a forward sweep. I then look where I want to go and switch my edges. You want to make sure you do that corrective stroke first before you switch edges. If you don't it could be a little more difficult for you, you'll still curve in that same edge. So let me show you step by step what I'm doing and I'll explain it to you. Here we go! So what I do is start with the forward sweep, I look and switch and then the key thing is paddle forward so keep that momentum into the turn. So practice some figure 8's on the pond to get good at it or you can have your friends do a human slalom, practice in and out of them. Perfect practice makes perfect.

How to Switch Edges while Kayaking

Comments

Related Ads

Related Articles & Videos