Ewan Scott wrote:

Unless taking part in a race of some form speed is, or surely should be a
lesser priority than the ability to paddle steadily over an extended period.
That would apply to any non-competitive paddling, which despite the best
wishes of some in the sport, is the majority of us.

Surfing doesn't really fit, with high power to bash out, waiting around
past the breakline for something interesting, and then accelerating for
all you're worth before moving to rudders. I've never played polo
"properly", but I wouldn't have thought it a steady paddling operation
for the most part.

In most cases speed is only needed in short bursts IMHO.

For sea work I'd agree. One aspect is that a multi-mile relaxed forward
and a sprint forward use quite different techniques (or at least I do...
more vertical paddle shaft with longer strokes for quick sprints).

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
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