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standard cross-bow rudder, but the necessary con- tortions are so much cooler. Pre- and post-paddle stretching recommended (see Cross-Train).
LESS IS MORE
ONE-ARMED HIGH BRACE TURNS LEAVE A HAND FREE FOR OTHER IMPORTANT TASKS—LIKE WAVING TO YOUR FANS
THUMBS UP SYNCHRONIZED SWEEPING True performance
kayaking. PHOTO: MEGAN GAMBLE
U
sing a brace lends support to aggressively edged turns, allowing you to crank your kayak
around quicker. Most paddlers learn the low brace turn, while some rough water kayakers employ a high brace for turning across a wave face. But often overlooked is the one-armed high brace, an elegant flatwater maneuver that defines true performance kayaking. To execute this move, begin as you would for a low brace turn, building up some speed and then
Practicing pivot turns isn’t terribly exciting, but this exercise turns lazy circles into a graceful dance or full-contact competition, depending on inclinations and testosterone levels. Grab a partner and position your kayaks bow-to-stern, side-by-side about five feet apart. Now begin alternating forward and reverse sweep strokes to pivot together in unison. Speed up and see how fast you can go without ramming.
initiating the turn with a sweep stroke on the op- posite side. Switch from edging into your sweep to edging into the turn. Now this is where it gets fun. Let go of the paddle with your outside hand (left hand if you’re turning right) and use your inside hand to lift the paddle shaft over your head and extend the paddle
into the turn. Allow the shaft to rest across the back of your inside shoulder, drop the blade’s power face onto the water with a climbing angle, and edge your boat further than you’ve ever dared. See if you can dip your cockpit coaming under the water. With your outside hand unoccupied, you’re free to wave graciously or blow kisses to your fans.
PHOTO: VIRGINIA MARSHALL
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