Basic technique and guideline you should know when sailing (Part 2)

Visualizing the paddle step is to put the blade of the paddle in the water and push the person over the paddle, rather than pulling the paddle tongue across the water. This helps to push the boat more effectively when sailing.

Stage 1 (catch water): Turn when performing steps of rowing, lowering the paddle into the water from one side of the boat. If the oar blade is placed to the right of the boat, the right shoulder should be inclined towards the bow (forward).

The best place to lower the paddle into the water is in a position parallel to your feet.

Stage 2 (push the boat away): Turn your body when the oar blades push the water back. Use the basics to propel the person over the paddle rather than pulling the paddle’s tongue through the water by hand. This increases the effectiveness, reducing hand and shoulder fatigue.

Stage 3 (return to the position for the next step): When the paddle is lifted out of the water, prepare for the next step with the other shoulder tilted toward the bow of the boat. 

In general, the forward paddle step is a simultaneous, continuous push-and-pull motion – pushing with the upper hand, pulling with the lower hand, which helps to rotate smoothly while rowing.

To add strength, follow the steps below.

Focus on your hands when stretching

Imagine yourself throwing a punch with one hand

Grab the paddle, place one hand on your shoulder

From the shoulder, unleash an imaginary punch for additional force. The vigorous rotation of the body also increases the force.

In general, when rowing, good techniques bring more benefits than the force of the upper body.


What is the simplest way to rotate a moving boat? Just put the paddle blades on one side of the boat underwater. The boat will immediately rotate in that direction – but the boat will sharply decrease its speed when turning.