k.pearson wrote:
On 24 Jan 2006 06:06:02 -0800, wrote:
Kneeling affords better control, a lower centre of gravity and seems a
little faster. Not as comfortable though.
High kneeling is less stable due to a higher center of gravity, allows
longer, stronger strokes and is very difficult to master for
competition (mostly because the boats are so tender).
OK ... We are obviously talking about a different boat. For the
Grummans, Old Towns, Chestnuts and most boats that come with a cane
type seat; while kneeling, the centre of gravity will be lower: Contact
with the boat is much better.
This may be different in racing boats but for an open canoe in wind,
having to dodge stuff and straight paddling kneeling can't help but be
the more efficient meathod.
Direct contact is with the knees on the inside of the hull, the front
of the seat with the buttocks with he knees spread apart.
Now standard seating your feet will be flat on the bottom of the hull
and your knees will be at the same level as your hips.
Kneeling the total wieght of your feet is replaced with the lower leg
the knees and a bit of the thigh. The thigh that was once parallel to
the bottom of the boat now is lower with most of it well below the
hips. The upper body is supported in three places and spread like a
tripod allowing real purchase on the boat.
Of course I might be wrong. If so me and Bill Mason will just have to
go away and be quiet.
I am sure now I am talking about a different boat.