Any tips on balancing in a K1

[isabel91]

Hi Guys/Gals,

I am new to this forum. I am beginning to train in a K1 and have a lot of difficulty trying to stop myself from capsizing even when I am not moving. Any tips, please? Usually how long does a normal person take to balance in a K1?

[Blastoise]

Hello. balancing comes with practice. spend more time on the boat and you'll get it right.

[washeater]

Hi Guys/Gals,

I am new to this forum. I am beginning to train in a K1 and have a lot of difficulty trying to stop myself from capsizing even when I am not moving. Any tips, please? Usually how long does a normal person take to balance in a K1?

Hi, actually time spent to balance a K1 differs from person to person. Tall people with higher CG tend to take longer and somehow girls can do it better than guys. The time spent paddling in a T1 prior to learning the K1 is also a big determining factor.

Bracing aka "slapping the water with the paddle" is an important technique to learn. You need to learn how to keep the boat upright using your paddle.

I will actually suggest using a low seat/no seat for the boat. If possible, put some water in it to sink it down abit. But then again, it is up to your coach.

Cheers.

[isabel91]

Now I seem to be very stiff even when I am starting to move a bit, but not far. My seniors told me to relax my hips, but won't relaxing the hips cause more sways to either side?

[washeater]

Now I seem to be very stiff even when I am starting to move a bit, but not far. My seniors told me to relax my hips, but won't relaxing the hips cause more sways to either side?

It is natural for a K1 to "sway" from side to side while paddling. You need to stay relaxed in the boat. I guess this post comes abit too late though. Hope you are feeling comfortable in it already!