Balancing the Boat
Technique Considerations
One of the less important considerations is technique. Assuming the balance, mental, physical & attitudinal
considerations r taken care of, here r two key technique considerations that can influence seat positioning .
Positioning paddlers with proper technique near weaker paddlers
Allows weaker/new paddlers to observe paddler with excellent form & mirror them
Reinforces technique through peer influence & role modeling
Skilled paddlers can help maintain rhythm & momentum when others falter
Separating paddlers with tendencies to Shorten Strokes
Paddlers who shorten strokes or rush the recovery phase can disrupt timing
Separating these paddlers minimizes the propagation of improper technique
Prevents one paddler’s shortened stroke from influencing those around them
May pair stroke-shorteners with paddlers who excellent technique
Serves as a constant reminder & role model for proper form & stroke
Attention to all these details in boat balancing, when balancing front 5 to back 5, side to side, correct
placement of paddlers will make a huge difference in feel of boat, comfort of paddlers in rough water
conditions & time of races