The Greenland Paddle Forward Stroke

TL;DR

Greenland paddle stroke techniques and differences from European methods.

Transcript

well my name is greg stamer president of kayak usa and i've been using a greenland paddle for almost 20 years and i wanted to explain a few of the differences between say euro stroke and a greenland stroke in euro tradition you would expect to hold a greenland paddle with all your fingers on the loom or the paddle shaft and that's h... Read More

Key Insights

• Greg Stamer discusses the Greenland paddle technique, emphasizing the unique hand placement with only two fingers on the loom, which tilts the blade forward for a more effective stroke.
• The Greenland paddle spreads its surface area differently than European paddles, requiring a quicker and cleaner blade immersion for optimal performance.
• Power application in Greenland paddling builds gradually, contrasting with the immediate power application seen in European techniques, and exits well behind the hip.
• The height of the paddle can be adjusted like gears on a bicycle to control speed and efficiency, with a 45-degree angle being common for regular touring.
• George Gronseth highlights the importance of the Greenland paddle as part of a system with the kayak, allowing for natural corrections in steering, especially in windy conditions.
• The Greenland paddle's design, with or without a shoulder, allows for easy hand placement adjustments without visual confirmation, aiding in effective paddling.
• Unlike European paddles, the Greenland paddle allows for a high blade position without raising the elbows significantly, reducing strain and using less energy.
• Greenland paddles excel in rough conditions, providing excellent bracing, though they are not designed for racing, unlike wing paddles.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main difference in hand placement between Greenland and European paddles?

The main difference in hand placement is that the Greenland paddle is held with only two fingers around the loom, while the rest of the hand is at the roots of the blade. This causes the blade to tilt forward, aligning with the natural tilt of the wrist, unlike the full grip on the loom used in European paddling.

Q: How does the surface area distribution of a Greenland paddle affect its use?

The surface area of a Greenland paddle is spread out differently than European paddles, requiring the blade to be immersed quickly and cleanly. This distribution results in less shock to the body over long distances but necessitates a swift and precise immersion to ensure the stroke is effective before the blade exits the water.

Q: How does power application differ between Greenland and European paddling techniques?

In Greenland paddling, power is applied more gradually, with the blade accelerating and power building during the exit. In contrast, European paddling techniques emphasize maximum force quickly and upfront, with the blade being released at the hip. This gradual power build in Greenland paddling results in a longer, flowing stroke with the blade exiting well behind the hip.

Q: What role does paddle height play in Greenland paddling?

Paddle height in Greenland paddling can be adjusted to control speed and efficiency, similar to gears on a bicycle. For regular touring, a 45-degree angle is common, while a higher paddle position is used for sprinting. This adjustability allows paddlers to optimize their energy use and adapt to different paddling conditions.

Q: How does the Greenland paddle system aid in steering during windy conditions?

The Greenland paddle system allows for natural steering corrections by sliding the hand out on the blade for a wider stroke on one side, counteracting the wind's effect. This adjustment can be done seamlessly without visual confirmation, making it an intuitive and effective method for maintaining course in windy conditions.

Q: What is the significance of the shoulder on a Greenland paddle?

The shoulder on a Greenland paddle provides a tactile reference point for hand placement, allowing paddlers to adjust their grip without needing to look. This feature is particularly useful when making steering corrections or adjusting stroke techniques, ensuring consistent and effective paddling without visual distractions.

Q: Why is the Greenland paddle preferred in rough conditions?

The Greenland paddle is preferred in rough conditions due to its excellent bracing capabilities and the ability to maintain control without significant elbow lift. Its design allows for effective power application and steering adjustments, providing stability and maneuverability in challenging environments, unlike racing-oriented wing paddles.

Q: How does the Greenland paddle reduce energy expenditure compared to European paddles?

The Greenland paddle reduces energy expenditure by allowing for a high blade position without requiring significant elbow lift, minimizing strain. The gradual power build and efficient stroke technique optimize energy use, making it suitable for long-distance paddling and reducing fatigue compared to the immediate power application and elbow strain in European paddling.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Greg Stamer and George Gronseth explain the Greenland paddle forward stroke, highlighting differences from European paddling techniques. The Greenland paddle requires a unique grip and stroke approach, offering advantages in long-distance paddling and rough conditions.

• The Greenland paddle's design spreads its surface area, necessitating a quick and clean blade immersion for effective strokes. Power builds gradually, and the paddle exits well behind the hip, unlike the immediate power application in European paddling.

• Adjusting the paddle height controls speed and efficiency, akin to bicycle gears. The Greenland paddle system allows for natural steering corrections, with minimal elbow lift, making it ideal for rough conditions but not for racing.