Learn To Properly Hold a Kayak Paddle

Make Sure the Paddle is Facing The Right Direction

It is a common mistake for kayakers to hold their paddle backwards the first time they pick up a kayak paddle. Although it may not immediately seem to make a difference which side of the blade pulls you through the water, it does have a significant impact on the amount of power you can generate with your stroke. Keep the part of the paddle blade that is concave or smooth facing you. The best way to visualize this is to picture the palm of your hand as a paddle. Keep your fingers and thumb together and ever so slightly angle your fingers inward. The palm of your hand represents the face of the paddle and the back of your hand represents back of the paddle. The face of the paddle is the part you want to pull through the water.