Ferg's five paddling tips
We talked to Ian Ferguson about proper kayaking technique and fitness. Ferg says that a good paddling technique makes kayaking an excellent low-impact exercise. A proper paddling stroke works core upper-body muscles and uses back and leg muscles as well.
- A proper kayaking posture starts with a straight back. The paddler should then lean slightly forward from the waist.
- Each stroke obtains power from the entire upper body. Pivot your torso and push one shoulder forward (don't just reach forward with your arms).
- When the paddle blade enters the water, pull your leading shoulder back and drive your torso all the way through the stroke. This will twist your body sideways and set you up for the next stroke.
- The continuous twisting movement forces you to balance the boat by readjusting your legs - so it's a full-body exercise.
- A good paddling technique is also efficient. Major muscles drive the kayak quickly through the water with minimal effort ... allowing you to explore rivers and coastlines for hours on end.
More information
- The KASK Handbook: A manual for sea kayaking in New Zealand
- Coastal Sea Kayaking in New Zealand - Kerry Howe, New Holland, 2005
- Water Safety New Zealand: www.watersafety.org.nz
- Drunken Monkey Kayaks: www.dmk.co.nz
- New Zealand Kayak School: www.nzkayakschool.com
Report by Luke Harrison
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $28
Previous: Top sea-kayaking spots
