The Physics of Strength in Paddling

For the layman, many define strength from a standpoint of a personal fitness specialist (i.e. correct form). But what exactly is this "thing" called 'form'? What encompasses good "form" that makes the movement of a strength exercise (e.g. deadlift) correct or excellent? I have been pondering these questions for as long as I can remember and an alternative perspective from this book I'm reading now somehow enlightened me in this respect.(Picture of book at end of post!) Few actually look at movement from a physics perspective which is what I am about to discuss in this post. Physics haters be forewarned. Paddle geeks are welcome to continue:)


Most of us who have gone through a typical Physics lesson would remember the definition of Force which is defined as a result of mass multiplied by acceleration against gravity (i.e. F=M x A). An example in paddling would be how the greater the force, and the faster we apply it to our paddle, the faster the boat travels. As a muscle contracts especially when we exert force on our paddle, few people realise that we produce a rotational force called torque. Because of the unique way our bones and joints move through an arc, it is nearly impossible for a single joint to create movement in a straight line. 

However, the most effective way to produce pure force is in a straight line and this is especially true to lifting a weight. Producing force and keeping the distance as short as possible is the most effective way to move a load. 

So how does this apply to dragon boat or any of the paddling sports? 

The key to strength is moving the weight (i.e water)  in as close to a straight line as possible and to keep the the force of the load moving in the intended direction. If when paddling, you produce the force outside of its intended path, that force is dissipated and wasted. This dissipation of force can be seen in paddlers who use a lacklustre sideways paddling technique that moves the paddle through an arc in the water. Much "strength" is produced but ironically it results in less force. 

Moving the paddle in a straight line when our body is made of levers moving in arcs is really tricky indeed. Imagine your shoulders, arms and core working together to synchronise a movement to just keep the paddle vertical and travelling straight through the water. I think you get the drift by now. Great strength can therefore be harnessed by accessing and coordinating the body movements to work together to produce  force in a straight line. This enhances the notion of practising a particular movement and using proper technique as the keys to success. Watch this video to understand how straight line movement is a key factor to force. C Canoeists have to maintain this movement while managing the torque in their joints to produce the maximum amount of force through the water. 

I hope you guys understand why when your coaches constantly remind you to focus on technique how this actually improves your ability to produce force in a more effective manner. Enhancing your technique as a paddler will help to improve application of force for the same strength applied. So you think you are already pulling the water the hardest you can? Till my next post! 

Here's the book which helped me understand this a whole lot better. Thanks to NLB!