Body Position and Boat Balance


HIKING TECHNIQUES As wind velocity increases or decreases, sailors must adjust their weight to keep the boat flat. Hiking is one method used to keep the boat balanced and nearly flat. In a doublehanded boat, the crew is the first to make adjustments; if the crew can make all the necessary movement required to keep the boat flat, the skipper can stay put and focus on steering. As a change in wind velocity approaches, start adjusting weight placement before the change actually occurs and be ready to move more as needed. Keeping the boat flat decreases sideways slippage and allows you to reach your destination more efficiently.


Photo: Justin Chando


As a general rule, most sailors like to hike out with the middle of the back of their thigh (between the knee and hip) on the edge of the side of the boat. The top of your feet, just behind your toes, should be positioned under the hiking strap and close together. Hiking straps are adjustable and can be tightened or loosened for comfort. It is important that you are comfortable, because you may end up in this position for a while. Closed-toe shoes or boots should be worn to protect your feet while you are hiking; sandals and loose fitting shoes will be more of a hindrance, especially if you capsize and they come off your feet.


Through continued practice sailors learn how to hike straight- legged for long periods of time. Straight-legged hiking extends your body out the farthest, counteracting the pressure on the sails to create the best boat speed. When sailors stop hiking straight-legged and sit on the rail of the boat instead, the boat will heel more and slow down.


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