Friday July 25th - 9am
This 2-hour clinic is designed for paddlers seeking to master the unique and rewarding art of V1 canoe steering, which relies entirely on the paddle for direction and control. By delving into the specifics of V1 paddling, we aim to enhance your technique, improve your understanding of the biomechanics involved, and boost your overall efficiency on the water.
Clinic Content:
Hour 1: Technique & Biomechanics Fundamentals We will begin with an in-depth look at proper technique and the biomechanics of the V1 stroke, focusing on how to engage the correct muscle groups and maintain proper body position for injury prevention and maximum efficiency. This section will cover:
- The fundamental forward stroke used for propulsion, emphasizing how pulling or pushing the paddle beyond the paddler's hip can be used to add steering.
- Detailed instruction on various steering strokes, including the J-Stroke, which combines forward momentum with a turning force by angling the paddle blade.
- The Draw Stroke, used for lateral movement or changing direction by paddling on the same side of the canoe as the desired movement.
- Exploration of other fine-tuning strokes such as sweep strokes and reverse strokes.
Hour 2: On-Water Application & Efficiency The second hour will be spent on the water, applying the techniques discussed. You will practice various V1 steering strokes, learning to adjust the angle and placement of your paddle blade for optimal control. The focus will be on:
- Developing a strong sense of the canoe's movement and its reaction to your paddle strokes.
- Working on drills to improve your technique, enhance your comfort and mobility on the boat, and adjust your stroke to varying water conditions for improved efficiency.
- This practical session aims to help you optimize your performance, allowing you to generate more speed or stay dry in choppy conditions.
By the end of this session, you will walk away with a clearer understanding of V1-specific techniques, improved biomechanical awareness, and the skills needed to paddle your V1 canoe more efficiently and confidently. You'll experience firsthand the rewarding purity of steering a V1 with just your paddle.
BRING YOUR OWN BOAT