Dragon Boat Paddling Resources

For an effective drill to teach both the importance of the catch and to focus on positioning the body, Body Weight Pulls are a great tool to utilize.

Set up the drill by demonstrating the proper technique for the catch. The concept is to start the stroke without pulling, but to allow your body weight to drive the paddle down and the boat forward.

Start with body weight for the first 75% of the stroke, with physical pull for the last 25%. do this for 20 or so strokes.

Next move up to 50% of the stroke as body weight, 50% pull, again for 20 or so strokes.

Prgress like this up to full pull.

This will also likely produce a different entry, a smoother one! It emphasizes the proper feel of compression on catch. There should be no cavitation as there will be good water both in front and behind the paddle. 

Body positioning is also something that can be integrated into this drill. When setting up maximize rotation and reach to maximize body weight on the paddle.

Have fun!

First off, I like it... a lot!

The feeling is unlike any other paddle I have used, which admittedly is too damn few! The first thing I noticed was a better feel for the water than I'm used to, even with neoprene winter gloves on! The entry is flawless and the exit gives an enhanced feeling of the water.

This is not the lightest paddle, but it is plenty light and with the sensitivity, it is now my favorite! You can feel the flex of the paddle during the stroke. You can feel the lift of water on exit. You can feel the rush on entry, and the compression on pull. 

The "T" handle is a very nicely curved palm and flat opposite side. There is more palm contact which accounts for some of the added sensitivity. And the angle of the opposing side gives the fingers a better grip than the average round handle, which again aids in sensitivity.

If you have not developed your sensitivity for blade angle on entry, pull, or exit technique, this paddle will help you learn. 

Highly recommended!

Kialoa Hybrid Dragon Boat Paddle 

UPDATE : 1/08/10

As a coach I have to say Buy this Paddle! OK. now that that's out of the way...

Further impressions are all positive. I've done enough side by side comparison now to say again this is my favorite paddle!

Paddling is all about technique combined with power, and exploiting what you have is one of the best things you can learn. The Kialoa Hybrid allows you to feel more while you paddle. You will be surprised by it's delicate sensitivity combined with it's power. Having a feel for how the water is reacting to the paddle under full power is incredibly powerful information. This paddle gives you clues about your technique, and if you pay attention you will learn to quickly optimize your stroke.

As any paddler knows, this process is never ending and there is nothing like feedback from a good coach and friend. The Kialoa Hybrid is the best friend you can have in the water, and a great coach if you learn to listen.

Paddels Up Kialoa!