Sea Kayak Strokes by Doug Alderson

Published 2007 by Rocky Mountain Books

Paperback

ISBN 978-1-894765-85-5

Price $17.95 US, $19.95 CDN

If you reading the majority of sea kayaking books which were published over 10 years ago they will show you how to navigate, discuss the weather, have numerous pages on kayak design and offer advice on clothing and then dismiss how to handle a sea kayak in a couple of pages. It is also likely that the only stroke that will be covered is forward paddling.

Thankfully things have changed and the latest book by Canadian author Doug Alderson “Sea Kayak Strokes” is a reflection of how far things have progressed. 153 pages of solid advice on how to control a sea kayak in a variety of water conditions and not a single mention of laying off a course or a warm front.

The book contains chapters on bracing, forward stroke, sweep strokes, draw strokes and rolling amongst others. Each stroke is clearly described and a number of exercises explained. I particularly liked the idea of choreography, that strokes aren’t performed in isolation but are blended together to produce an artful dance. What develops is an effective paddling style as opposed to a series of individual movements. It is the transition from being a novice to an accomplished sea kayaker.

Although Doug acknowledges that there is the need for good coaching and supportive paddling partners dipping into this book on a regular basis can only increase an individuals awareness of the range of strokes, which are available and their application. There are numerous suggestions on how to improve technique, for example, how much time do we spend working on cadence when out on the water but an appropriate stroke rate is fundamental to efficient forward paddling.

All books should stimulate thought and encourage the development of new ideas. This book is no exception to the rule, I am really looking forward to selecting a piece of rope to use next time I teach rolling. It looks like a simple but very effective coaching technique.

The book covers the whole range of strokes from the obvious to the more obscure. For example, how often do we teach people to look over their shoulders but the failure to do so is probably the most important factor in groups splitting up whilst on the water, yet there are some very simple pointers which could significantly improve group control.

If there is an omission it is the lack of coverage on cross bow strokes, which I realise in itself is a controversial point as many kayakers won’t acknowledge their usefulness. I believe that they are useful for two different reasons, firstly they can turn a kayak quickly and secondly they encourage paddlers to explore what is possible in a kayak, extending their own horizons.

Doug Alderson has produced yet another book which should prove invaluable to paddlers regardless of ability and I am sure that a number of coaches will be able to glean numerous ideas for use with their groups.

Kevin Mansell