Common Issues

Common Issues & Fixes

Dragon Boat paddling is a technically nuanced activity.

Here we list a number of common issues which paddlers encounter but are not necessaily aware of.

Paddle Related

Vertical Paddle

Clearly breathing is important during physical exercise! How and when to perform the Exhale and Inhale are more significant than you may think or realise.

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Twisted Paddle

Here we hightlight issues such as hand/grip position and the ideal trajectory of the paddle through the water.

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Paddle Grip

What is the best position to grip the paddle shaft in order to have an efficient stroke.

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Loss of Form/Technique

Bobbing/Lunging

The paddler lurches forward or drops their body weight downwards to gain stroke length and power. This can kill boat glide when the whole team does it.

Coming Soon

Bent Arm Pulling

The paddler's arms bend excessively during the stroke which means they are not working through the legs and torso.

Over extended Setup

The paddler is over reaching in the set up position limiting the power that can be achieved at the catch position.

Hunching

The paddler has a hunched posture. This reduces the effectiveness of the stroke and can cause shoulder injuries. It also uses a lot of energy as the paddler is tensed throughout the stroke.

Collapsing Top Hand

The paddler's arms bend excessively during the stroke which means they are not working through the legs and torso.

Missing the Catch

Also commonly know as "Shortening up", the paddler does not lock into the water at the front of the stroke. The paddlers set-up in a good position but often the blade comes straight down meaning by the time the blade strikes the water, only half the potential stroke length is achieved.

Coming Soon