Moving Water Canoe Introduction Solo Skills Resource Manual

Introduction

This manual has been provided to help instructors better structure and facilitate their programs, offering clearer instructions and best practices for course delivery. It emerges from our evolving understanding of how to teach moving water canoeing in an effective and efficient manner. Carving a canoe is essential to navigating moving water and should be introduced first in a flatwater setting. As soon as the participant has a basic understanding of carving, they should experience Class I moving water. It is our belief that this two-step approach is the most efficient and effective way to get participants successfully executing manoeuvres and navigating moving water. This process also facilitates completing the course material in two days while generating enthusiasm for moving water canoeing.

How To Use This Manual

The objective of this manual is to provide a concise reference that presents the course material for Introduction Tandem Moving Water in a practical lesson plan format.

The manual is organized around the understanding that moving water canoe manoeuvres are built on a set of skills and knowledge, a set of basic strokes and a set of risk management principles.

There are 5 main headings in this manual:

• Goals
• Skills and Manoeuvres
• Knowledge
• Strokes
• Risk Management

This manual begins with the four underlying goals of the Moving Water program - carving, lateral movement, water reading and risk management. These four goals will be achieved by teaching paddlers the skills and manoeuvres. Each manoeuvre involves the application of a combination of specific elements of Skills and Knowledge.

Strokes and risk management are integrated sections and the knowledge contained within them runs throughout the entire manual and should be incorporated throughout courses.

The material in the skills and manoeuvres, knowledge and strokes sections are presented in a lesson plan format using Paddle Canada's recommended paddler-centred pedagogical approach to skill and knowledge instruction (IDEAS/IES). This approach provides an easy and logical presentation of the material, and it provides an organized framework for the instructor to use for a lesson plan.

This document is designed to be an interconnected and interactive quick reference manual. Sections in the table of contents, are linked to the area you can find them. Individual sections are also cross referenced with links to other relevant sections of the manual. For example, at the bottom of each manoeuvre page you will find a linked quick reference section called skills and knowledge required allowing the user to quickly navigate to information on any of the specific skill or knowledge elements involved in performing that manoeuvre. With time the manual will also be enriched by linking to multimedia resources providing demonstrations of manoeuvres, skills and strokes and explanations of knowledge concepts.

This manual is designed to be concise, inviting, interactive and accessible. No longer will you have to search through an entire manual to find the one piece of information you are looking for. It can be read all in one sitting or be used to glean information as needed. We hope you enjoy using it!

Example of How One Could Use the Manual

You are a Paddle Canada Moving Water Instructor, and you are teaching your first class. You are feeling nervous about the S-turn. The following is a potential way to address the knowledge gaps.

Go to the table of contents and click on S-Turns, it will take you to the S-Turns section. The information contained in the S-Turn section is presented in the IDEAS format and supplemented with a diagram. This presents the information in a progressive nature and provides a suggested lesson plan.

At the bottom of the section there is a list of knowledge and skills that are required to complete the S-turn. The skills and knowledge are linked to their respective sections in the manual. If you are unsure about any skill, you can click on it, and you will be taken to that section in the manual to get further information.

Acknowledgements

The Paddle Canada Moving Water Canoe Introduction Solo is the product of significant commitment by the Moving Water Canoe Program Development Committee and its subcommittee members. To these individuals and all others that helped design and sculpt this program Paddle Canada extends a sincere thank you.

Moving Water Canoe Program Committee

• Priscilla Haskin, Chair - Alberta
• Brian Johnston - Manitoba
• Brett Pawlyk – Alberta
• Andrew Westwood - Ontario
• Darrent Keith - Quebec (2024 member)
• Solo Subcommittee Members:
• Andrew Westwood - Ontario
• Jason Prno - Ontario
• Chris Wall - Saskatchewan

Illustration Credits (unless otherwise noted on page)

• Andrew Haskin - Manoeuvres and Strokes
• Paul Mason - River Signals and Canoe Design
• Carole Westwood - CAPT Chart

Recent Program Changes

See a complete list of recent changes to the program.

Mission Statement

To introduce participants to the exciting world of moving water canoeing while emphasizing boat control, reading the river and safe practice.

Pedagogy - Paddler-Centred Learning and Progression

Participants are typically entering the course with the goal of experiencing moving water. Paddle Canada's teaching methods favour paddler participation.

The IDEAS and IES methods of teaching are highly recommended as foundational teaching methods for Paddle Canada instructors. They provide a proven, paddler-centred approach to course delivery across the country. Learning is enhanced when participants are engaged and active in the discovery of paddling.

IDEAS is typically used when teaching stroke or maneuver-based lessons. IES is typically used for theory or knowledge-based lessons.

IDEAS

Introduction

Why do I need to know this? Where will I use this?

Demonstration

A quality demonstration of the stroke or manoeuvre, with no talking, that considers the placement of the participant and provides them with the appropriate view of the skill.

Explanation

A concise explanation that a participant can reasonably remember - 3 points are best.

Action

The stroke or manoeuvre activity used to integrate the skill being taught. Remember to define the limits of the practice area. Feedback is given to the participants at this time.

Summary

Summarize the main points of what was taught and re-emphasize where the skill is used.

IES Method

Introduce

Provide a brief context of the activity.

Engage

Provide participant opportunities to discover lesson outcomes using engaging activities. For example, participants may draw navigation routes, model river anatomy, map arcs used in carving manoeuvres or complete task cards. Participants can work individually or in groups to present their findings.

Summary

At the conclusion of the activity, consolidate learning with a concise set of points.

Progression

It is the intention of this manual to avoid prescribing a set progression for teaching Moving Water Skills Courses with the exception that our current approach is to start with carving.

Progression is impacted by so many elements. Instructors should consider working sequentially relative to the skill being taught (using building blocks/strong foundations). Consider site features and utilize them to the advantage of the skill being taught. Weather, water releases, transportation, and fatigue are just some of the additional elements that can impact a progression. One should also be thinking sequentially in the sense that if we teach a skill, it should be immediately employed in a realistic situation.

Participant success influences when to advance to the next skill by providing either the need to move forward, or to return to a previous skill for practice or clarification. To a degree, progressions are meant to be flexible, adaptable and responsive to the needs of participants, logistics and environmental factors.

Assessment

The Moving Water program's instructional focus is on Carving Arcs, Lateral Movement, Reading Water and Risk Management. Participants will be assessed for their achievement of program elements as part of ongoing feedback from the instructor. To assist in this endeavour an assessment box is included following each performance activity in this manual. The assessment boxes describe the expectations of the individual outcomes.

Note on Terminology

There can be many common names for various terms and instructors may use other acceptable terminology. For example, but not limited to:

• Front Ferry, as used in the manual, may also be called Forward Ferry or Upstream Ferry,
• Cut or Crossbow Cut, as used in the manual, may also be called a Static Draw or Static Cross-Bow Draw.

Goals

The four overarching goals of the Moving Water program are Carving Arcs, Lateral Movement, Reading Water and Risk Management. These goals are accomplished through instruction that leads to a full understanding of the necessary manoeuvres, strokes, skills, and knowledge by participants.

Carving Arcs

Participants must comprehend and demonstrate how manoeuvres are completed by carving the canoe along different arcs. In this sense, 'carving' is the action taken, while an 'arc' is the resulting shape of that action.

The Solo Moving Water Canoeing Program emphasizes paddling canoes on arcing paths (carving a canoe) and controlling the turning radius of the canoe through the use of hull and forward/cross-forward stroke components such as Cadence, paddle Angle, stroke Position and Tilt (CAPT).

By carving, participants develop an understanding of the presence and use of bow pinning waves. These waves are used to guide the bow of the canoe throughout carving manoeuvres.

Lateral Movement

Participants must demonstrate carving an arc across the current.

Moving a canoe laterally in current is fundamental to paddling moving water. Manoeuvres such as entering and exiting eddy pools, ferries, and S-Turns all incorporate lateral movement crossing the grain of the current.

Participants will learn to use CAPT to control the shape of the arc while moving laterally across current.

Reading Water

Participants must understand water features for the purpose of identifying preferred routes, hazards and features that can be used to assist manoeuvres.

Current and water features are recognizable by shape, colour and texture. By reading and identifying basic currents, paddlers will use this information to create appropriate arcs to enter the downstream flow, eddy pools, and move laterally across the river.

Risk Management

Participants must identify and mitigate hazards that may be encountered in a moving water environment, including human factors.

Participants need to be aware of the risks and responsibilities they assume when they paddle, whether real or perceived. The topics presented in a moving water course are intended to ensure that participants are engaged in understanding and managing risks so their paddling experience can be fully enjoyed in as safe a manner as possible. Risk Management should be presented in a fun and engaging way throughout the course to build confidence and not fear.

Skills and Manoeuvres

All manoeuvres at the Introductory level will be performed in a Class I rapid or river. Participants will maintain the same paddle grip (for example, not change hands) throughout the manoeuvre. Participants are required to demonstrate a safety conscious attitude, proper stroke mechanics, adequate power and efficiency, cooperation and communication, and care for equipment throughout the manoeuvres.

Please note that many of the Manoeuvres described in this section have prerequisite knowledge and strokes components associated with them. This manual does not prescribe the order of lessons that should be taught (for example, the manual's section numbering does not suggest the sequence of lessons that should occur) and course instructors have substantial flexibility in how they deliver their courses. However, all course instructors must ensure relevant knowledge and strokes are taught prior to any manoeuvres that utilize them.

Experience also suggests that course participants, particularly at the Introductory level, often benefit from flatwater practice and drills prior to applying these manoeuvres in a moving water environment.

Canoe Carry

Introduction

A Canoe Carry can be performed by one or more individuals. Participants (possibly with assistance) will demonstrate a carry for a short distance. There are several different ways to carry a canoe.

Demonstration

Explain

Participants will demonstrate an effective canoe carry for a short distance either independently or with assistance. The method of the carry should be safe, accommodate terrain hazards, distance, any physical limitation of those involved and emphasize teamwork. Below are two possible options for consideration.

Option 1 - Two Person Carry: Two participants, together, lift and carry the canoe using bow and stern grab loops (or deck thwarts if equipped) to lift and move the canoe. The bow carrier should be aware that the stern carrier has poor visibility of foot placement as the canoe blocks the visibility of the terrain. Communication between partners regarding obstacles and regard for walking pace (not too fast) will improve the safety of the carry.

Option 2 - One Person Carry: A participant stands at the mid-point of the canoe, hands gripping the gunnel shoulder width apart and tilts the canoe away from their body. Lift and rest the canoe on thighs and, with a gentle rocking motion, lift the far gunnel up to be grasped with an outstretched hand. Again, using your legs, rock and flip the canoe above your head. Guide the canoe so the saddle or yoke will rest on your shoulder(s). Stabilize the canoe with both hands bracing the gunnels while walking.

Summary

Participants will carry a canoe a short distance. The method used in a canoe carry may vary due to canoe weight, distance to carry, candidate ability, or terrain. Participants should select a method using one or more people that is safest for the circumstances.

Launching in an Eddy Pool

The participant will enter a canoe, within an eddy pool, while keeping a low centre of gravity and maintaining control of the canoe.

Introduction

When launching, ensure the canoe is in the eddy pool, facing upstream and keep a low centre of gravity when entering the canoe.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Lay the paddle across the gunnels just in front of the knee pads. Extend the arms so each hand can grasp both the gunnel and paddle shaft on both sides of the canoe.
2. Lift and place the foot nearest the canoe to the outside of the saddle/seat, followed by the other foot to the opposite side of the saddle.
3. Lower the body onto the saddle while sliding the feet back and either securing the thigh straps or fitting the legs into the bulkhead outfitting.

Action

Participants effectively enter a canoe and secure themselves to their outfitting and are prepared to paddle.

Summary

When launching face upstream in the eddy and keep a low centre of gravity when entering the canoe.

Landing in an Eddy Pool

The participant will exit a canoe, within an eddy pool, while keeping a low centre of gravity and maintaining control of the canoe.

Introduction

When landing, ensure the canoe is in the eddy pool, facing upstream and when exiting, keep a low centre of gravity.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Exit the outfitting by removing straps or stepping up from the bulkhead thigh braces.
2. Place the paddle across the gunnels in front of the knee pads and grasp both the paddle and gunnel.
3. Lean forward and bring the feet forward, under the body, keeping a low centre of gravity.
4. With one leg at a time, step out of the canoe, in the reverse order as entering the canoe.

Action

Participants effectively exit a canoe while maintaining balance and control of the canoe.

Summary

When landing, face upstream in the eddy, keep a low centre of gravity when exiting and reverse the order from entering the canoe.

Pivots within an Eddy Pool

Introduction

Participants will pivot the canoe clockwise and counterclockwise about its midpoint to point the bow in the desired direction prior to moving forward.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Using either Forward or Reverse Sweeps, participants will pivot the canoe.
2. The canoe will be pivoted about its midpoint as far as necessary to point the bow in a desired direction.
3. The Pivot can be halted at any point by briefly doing the opposing sweep stroke.

Action

Participants will demonstrate Pivots using Forward Sweeps and Reverse Sweeps of at least a half rotation and stop the pivot when the bow is pointing in the desired direction.

Summary

Participants will pivot the canoe to point the bow in a desired direction.

Sideslips within an Eddy Pool

Introduction

Participants will manoeuvre their canoe laterally left or right in preparation for leaving an eddy pool.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Using Draws and Crossdraws or Prys, participants will move the canoe sideways to the desired position (without significantly pivoting the canoe).
2. Participants will sideslip into position for a Carving Start.

Action

Participants will demonstrate moving the canoe laterally (left and right) within an eddy to a predetermined location.

Summary

Participants will move the canoe laterally using the sideslip.

Carving Start

Introduction

The Carving Start begins most solo canoe manoeuvres. From a stopped position, efficiently accelerate the canoe and then initiate an arc using pairing of Forward and Cross Forward Strokes.

Demonstration

Explanation

Onside Drill

1. Participants will accelerate the canoe using alternate Forward and Cross Forward strokes being mindful initially not to overwhelm the strength of one over the other.
2. When the canoe achieves enough momentum (ideally within 3-5 strokes), the candidate will initiate an onside carve with a strong Cross Forward stroke accompanied by a J-tilt to the onside.
3. Once initiated, participants need to pause to permit the offside bow wave to build which will push the bow on an onside arcing path.
4. Once the carve is established, participants may continue paddling along an onside arc using only the Forward Stroke and an onside J-tilt.

Offside Drill

1. Participants will accelerate the canoe using alternate Forward and Cross Forward strokes being mindful initially not to overwhelm the strength of one over the other.
2. When the canoe achieves enough momentum (ideally within 3-5 strokes), the candidate will initiate an offside carve with a strong Forward Stroke accompanied by a J-tilt to the offside.
3. Once initiated, participants need to pause to permit the onside bow wave to build which will push the bow on an offside arcing path.
4. Once the carve is established, participants may continue paddling along an offside arc using only the Cross Forward Stroke and an offside J-tilt.

Action

Participants will practice a Carving Start by accelerating from rest and initiating an onside and/or offside carve.

Summary

The participant will accelerate the canoe to a reasonable speed within 3-5 strokes and initiate a carve.

Carving using CAPT (Flatwater Drill Set)

The 4 elements of CAPT should be introduced and practiced on the participant's onside first so that they more likely will have immediate success. Once completed, practice progresses to the offside carving circle.

Flatwater Drill: Cadence

Introduction

Cadence refers to how fast the Forward or Cross Forward strokes are performed. To widen an arc, the stroke cadence is increased, and to tighten the arc the stroke cadence is slowed down.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Participants will first initiate an onside carving arc using the Carving Start technique.
2. Participants will vary the cadence of the Forward Stroke to experience the effect on the shape of the carving arc. For example, speeding up the Forward Stroke to widen the arc, slowing the cadence to tighten the arc.
3. Repeat on the offside beginning with a Carving Start to the offside, then adjusting the cadence of the Cross Forward stroke to control the arc.

Action

Participants will paddle circles of varying arc diameter, both wide and tight. The arc will be controlled by the sole use of Forward Stroke or Cross Forward stroke cadence. Participants will show the use of faster cadence to widen an arc around a circle, and slower cadence to demonstrate a tighter arc.

Summary

The size of a carving arc can be controlled by varying the Forward, or Cross Forward stroke cadence. Participants will demonstrate how a faster cadence widens the arc and a slower cadence tightens the arc.

Flatwater Drill: Stroke Angle

Introduction

Stroke Angle refers to the angle of the paddle shaft relative to the side of the canoe. To widen an arc, participants will stroke with the paddle angled away from the canoe, and to tighten the arc the shaft is oriented vertically.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Participants will first initiate an onside carving arc using the Carving Start technique.
2. Participants will vary the paddle shaft angle of the Forward Stroke to affect the shape of the carving arc. Paddling with an angled paddle shaft will widen the arc, while stroking with a vertical paddle shaft will tighten the arc.
3. Repeat on the offside beginning with a Carving Start to the offside, then adjusting the paddle shaft angle of the Cross Forward stroke to control the arc.

Action

Participants will paddle circles of varying arc diameter, both wide and tight. The arc will be controlled by the sole use of Forward Stroke or Cross Forward stroke paddle shaft angle. Participants will show the use of an angled shaft to widen an arc around a circle, and vertical shaft to demonstrate a tighter arc.

Summary

The size of a carving arc can be controlled by varying the angle of the paddle shaft. Participants will demonstrate how an angled shaft widens the arc and a vertical shaft tightens the arc.

Flatwater Drill: Stroke Position

Introduction

Stroke Position refers to where the stroke is completed relative to the location of a paddler's knee. To widen an arc, the Forward Stroke is completed behind the knee, and to tighten the arc the Forward Stroke is completed in front of the knee.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Participants will first initiate an onside carving arc using the Carving Start technique.
2. Participants will vary the paddle finishing position of the Forward Stroke to affect the shape of the carving arc. For example, completing the forward stroke behind the knee will widen the arc, completing the stroke in front of the knee will tighten the arc.
3. Repeat on the offside beginning with a Carving Start to the offside, then adjusting the position of the Cross Forward stroke relative to the paddler's knee to control the arc.

Action

Participants will paddle circles of varying arc diameter, both wide and tight. The arc will be controlled by the sole use of Forward Stroke or Cross Forward Stroke paddle position. Participants will show the use of a paddle finishing behind the knee to widen an arc around a circle, and a stroke positioned ahead of the knee to demonstrate a tighter arc.

Summary

The size of a carving arc can be controlled by varying the position relative to the paddler's knee of the Forward, or Cross Forward stroke. Participants will demonstrate how a stroke positioned behind the knee widens the arc and positioned in front of the knee tightens the arc.

Flatwater Drill: J-Tilt

Introduction

J-tilt refers to how the canoe is held on its edge and provides traction to carve an arc. At the Introduction level, the canoe will be held on its “inside” edge (the edge that is on the inside of the arc being paddled). For example, when the canoe is paddled on an arc to the right, the canoe will be tilted to the right. If paddled toward the left, the canoe is tilted to the left.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Participants will first initiate an onside carving arc using the Carving Start technique.
2. Participants will carve an arc to their onside while tilting the canoe to the onside.
3. Participants will carve an arc to their offside while tilting the canoe to the offside.

Action

Participants will paddle circles to both their onside and their offside. Participants will match onside arcs with onside tilts, and offside arcs with offside tilts. The use of tilts should be included in any of the other CAPT drills to assist in carving.

Summary

Participants will demonstrate onside and offside carving arcs with the canoe tilted on the matching onside or offside edge.

Eddy Exit

Introduction

The Eddy Exit is a manoeuvre that allows participants to enter the current from an eddy pool, while maintaining control.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Determine the desired destination in the current and visualize the arcing path to get there.
2. From within the eddy pool, establish the carve that will follow that arcing path.
3. Adjust for the current forces (grain of current) to maintain your arcing path. For example, maintaining a wider arc may be necessary when entering stronger current and attempting to move laterally across the river.

Action

Participants practice Eddy Exits into the current while maintaining control of the canoe.

Summary

An Eddy Exit is accomplished by proper boat placement and control, while visualizing and carving an arc from an eddy into current.

Required Foundational Skills

Carving, CAPT, river anatomy, stability, reading the current and canoe design.

Eddy Entry

Introduction

The Eddy Entry is a manoeuvre that allows participants to exit the current and enter an eddy pool.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Plan the desired destination from the current into the eddy pool and visualize the arcing path to get there.
2. Establish the carve that will follow that arcing path.
3. Adjust for the current forces (grain of current) to maintain your arcing path.

Action

Participants practice Eddy Entries from the current into the eddy pool while maintaining control of the canoe.

Summary

An Eddy Entry is accomplished by carving a path from current to eddy pool.

Required Foundational Skills

Carving, CAPT, river anatomy, stability, reading the current and canoe design.

Front Ferries

Introduction

A Front Ferry is used to carve your canoe laterally across the current without significant movement downstream.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Plan an arcing path to the targeted eddy pool.
2. Beginning with the canoe facing upstream, carve the canoe towards the eddy pool.
3. Anticipate current forces (grain of current) and adjust the arc accordingly.
4. Initiate the opposing carving arc just before entering the targeted eddy pool.

Action

Paddlers practice moving laterally between eddy pools.

Summary

A Front Ferry is a lateral manoeuvre completed while facing upstream to a targeted destination.

Required Foundational Skills

Carving, CAPT, river anatomy, stability, reading the current and canoe design.

S-Turns

Introduction

An S-Turn is used to exit one eddy pool and move laterally to a downstream eddy pool on the opposite side of the river. The manoeuvre involves transitioning from the first arc to the second arc in a fluid S-turn motion.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. Carve out of the first eddy pool on an arc that will get you to an appropriate mid-current transition point.
2. Transition from your first arc to your opposing second arc.
3. Carve into the second eddy pool.

Action

The participant will practice executing S-turns originating from both sides of the river if the site allows.

Summary

An S-Turn is used to exit one eddy pool and move laterally to a downstream eddy pool on the opposite side of the river.

Required Foundational Skills

Carving, CAPT, river anatomy, stability, reading the current and canoe design.

Navigating River Bends

Introduction

The goal when navigating river bends is to maintain a safe, dry and direct route while avoiding hazards.

Demonstration

Explanation

1. A descriptive discussion of a river bend and the slower (and typically shallower) water located on the inside of the bend.
2. Potential hazards (sweepers, waves, undercuts)
3. Current grain
4. Canoe approaches and travels the inside of the river bend
5. 4 possible strategies exist where conditions permit include:
   1. Drive across the grain towards the inside of the bend,
   2. Eddy Entry on the inside of the river bend,
   3. Front Ferry from the upstream outside of the bend, and
   4. S-turn from the upstream outside of the bend.

Drive across the grain towards the inside of the bend.

Eddy Entry on the inside of the river bend.

Front Ferry from the upstream outside of the bend.

S-turn from the upstream outside of the bend.

Action

Participants identify river bends and navigate them by accessing the slower water located on the inside of the bend.

Summary

Participants will select the appropriate strategy to safely run river bends with a focus on a direct and dry line.

Required Foundational Skills

Carving, CAPT, river anatomy, stability, reading the current and canoe design.

Knowledge

Specific skills and knowledge are required for participants to paddle in the current. They build a foundational skill set that allows participants to feel comfortable to achieve the manoeuvres outlined in this manual.

Personal Preparedness

Introduction

Careful preparation prior to venturing out on the river is essential for ensuring safety and comfort.

Engage

The following topics will be discussed, but not limited to:

• Transport Canada Small Vessel Regulations
  • PFD/life jacket, whistle, bailer, throw bag (buoyant rope: 15 m)
  • Waterproof flashlight, if paddling after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility
• PaddleSmart
  • Trip Planning: trip plan, know the route, know the conditions, check the weather
  • Training: gain knowledge and skill, know and stay within your limits
  • Taking the Essentials: food, hydration, clothes, communication, etc.

Summary

Focusing on these areas enhances one's safety and comfort on the river.

Canoe Outfitting

Introduction

The participant will discuss the proper use and purpose of solo canoe outfitting. Focus will be on the safety and security of using either thigh straps (with either pedestal or seat) and/or bulkhead style outfitting and the safe use of foot braces.

Engage

Participants will discuss the fitment and quick release function of thigh straps. Participants will first cinch the thigh straps sufficiently to hold their legs securely, but not so tight that the straps will not slide off the thigh when the leg is relaxed and the feet are released from the foot pegs. The use of the quick release function of the buckle should be demonstrated as an alternative means of exiting the outfitting.

Participants will discuss the fitment of bulkhead outfitting. Ideally, a paddler's legs should fit snuggly beneath the thigh braces while the buttocks are fully seated on the saddle and feet secured on the foot braces. Proper use of the foot braces will require that the feet be pushing back on the braces to secure the thighs in the outfitting, but once the feet are relaxed, the paddler can easily exit the outfitting for the purpose of leaving the canoe for safety reasons.

Participants grip the canoe outfitting by tensioning the legs within the thighstraps/bulkhead and as necessary apply weight to kneepads and seat/pedestal. Effective outfitting secures the paddler when navigating turbulent moving water conditions.

Summary

Participants will secure themselves in canoe outfitting and demonstrate the safe exit from the outfitting in preparation for paddling in current.

Balance and Stability

Introduction

Good posture and body mechanics are essential skills in solo canoeing. They contribute to improved control, efficiency, and effectiveness in moving water. Without these basic skills paddling moving water will be difficult to manage as one progresses in their paddling.

Engage

Participants will discuss balance and stability skills including having proper body position, utilizing J-Tilt, engaging your outfitting effectively and adopting a stable stance while manoeuvring the canoe.

Balance: Body Posture

• Participants should have an upright posture with the upper body centered over the centerline of the canoe.
• Participants use the J-Tilt to carve the canoe. The 'lower body' (including hips and knees) will tilt the canoe while the upper body is kept in a stable upright posture (creating a 'J' shape when the body is viewed from the front).

Stability: Body Mechanics

• For added stability, participants are encouraged to adopt the 'Double A Frame'.
• The Lower A Frame shape consists of both legs bracing outward toward the walls of the canoe and joined at the hip. This Lower A Frame can be adjusted to hold the canoe stable as well as create tilts for carving. Maximum stability comes from locking the legs to hold the canoe securely.
• The Upper A Frame shape is made up of the paddle shaft (in the water), the arms and the body. The degree of separation of the paddle shaft from the body widens the Upper A Frame for added stability. Increasing the blade force creates tension that flows up the paddle shaft, across the arms/shoulders and down the body's core to the saddle. This maximizes stability as it stiffens the Upper A Frame.

Summary

Good posture and body mechanics are essential skills in solo canoeing and contribute to increased Balance and Stability, which subsequently lead to improved control, efficiency, and effectiveness in moving water.

River Hazards

Introduction

Hazard awareness allows paddlers to exercise risk management skills appropriate for the outing.

Engage

Participants will discuss these hazards that may be encountered on a Class I waterway including:

• Hydraulics/Low Head Dams: When water flows over an obstacle and recirculates back onto itself resulting in a retentive hole, wave and/or boil line. This can flip canoe and may keep canoe and possibly paddlers in one location.
• Pillow: Water that is piled up in front or on top of an obstacle. Contact with obstacle may wrap or capsize canoe.
• River Bend: Water flowing around a corner resulting in usually slower current speed on the inside and faster on the outside. This results in pushing the canoe to the outside of the bend including hazards such as sweepers and strainers.
• Obstacles (Rocks or Bridge Piers): A solid object in the river. This results in damages to the canoe due to wraps or capsizes as well as possible foot entrapment.
• Sweepers & Strainers: Tree branches and/or trunks that are hanging low over the river or just below the surface. This can result in canoe capsize or possibility trap paddlers and canoe.
• Temperature/Weather: The degree or intensity of cold or heat in a location including rain, wind, and snowmelt. This can lead to hypothermia or hyperthermia.
• Undercuts: Eroded shorelines where the water flows beneath the bank, usually found on outside bends of rivers, that expose or collect debris. This exposes the paddlers to a riverbank that may hold debris (for example, rocks, tree roots, etc.) that may flip or jam the canoe with limited exit points.
• Waves: A feature in the river caused by a sudden change within the riverbed or shoreline. This can lead to the canoe taking on water, pushing the canoe around and potentially capsize.

Summary

The possibility of hazards in moving water requires proper planning. For example, how to dress, what to take, routing, where or when to go and trip plans.

River Anatomy

Introduction

The ability to identify river anatomy features provides a useful link between water reading skills and a more complete understanding of the river environment that will result in a participant's increasing ability to understand the current, identify safe routes and to use features to assist manoeuvres.

Engage

Participants will discuss the following features that may be encountered on a Class I waterway.

• Current: The flow of water descending from higher to lower areas. Different speeds may be present due to varying depths, gradient and riverbed features.
• Current Line: The boundary between the Eddy Wedge and the downstream current.
• Eddy/Pool Line: The boundary between the Eddy Pool and the Eddy Wedge.
• Eddy Pool: The pooling of water behind a rock or outcropping along the side of the river. It can be slower moving than the main current, flow upstream or be seen as calm water.
• Eddy Wedge: The area of disturbed water between the Eddy Line and Current Line often characterized by boils and vortices.
• Grain of the Current: Parallel bands of current flowing at different speeds.
• River Bends: The location where the riverbank directs the river around a bend. The speed of the river varies from the inside to outside of the bend (slow to fast respectively).
• River Right/River Left: River left, and right are referenced “left and right” when looking downstream and will remain the same even if one turns around looking upstream.
• Standing Waves: A series of like waves created when fast water collides with slow water.
• Wave: Swell of water flowing over a rock or riverbed irregularity.

Summary

Knowledge of river anatomy will allow participants to better understand the makeup of a river and how best to navigate it safely.

Reading the Current

Introduction

Water reading is literally the language of the river. By observing visible changes in water texture and colour the river reveals features and characteristics of the current. As a skill, water reading can be used to assist the movement of the canoe while also warning of potential hazards to navigation.

Engage

Participants will participate in identifying the colour and texture of water features.

Observing changes in colour may be as simple as identifying light versus dark coloured water. Water may appear shimmering or matte, perhaps blue compared to black, or even grey contrasting to green. Regardless of the description, the important part is that a change has occurred.

Changes in texture may include descriptions of smooth, flat, bubbly, pebbly, gravelly, boily, rough, or wavy. Again, any observed change reveals something about the current and even the anatomy of the riverbed.

Using the visual clues to identify changes in currents, canoeists can then use this information to help plan a route, move the canoe, time strokes, stabilize their movement and avoid hazards.

For example, during an Eddy Exit, participants can use water reading to anticipate the arc shape necessary for entry into the downstream current. By visually identifying the contrast in the colour and texture of the eddy pool, eddy wedge and downstream current, canoeists can map out the boundary features of the pool line and current line.

Seeing these features in accurate detail will guide the use of CAPT to cross current boundaries, assist in anticipating the impact of the downstream current, and help determine the shape of the arc to complete the manoeuvre.

Current

• The flow of water, downstream
• Current appears wavy and may appear to lightly rise up or down.
• If wavy with some bubbles, may be light in colour due to reflection.

Eddy

• A pool of water moving upstream, usually found behind a rock, or outcropping along the shoreline.
• The water texture may be flat or smooth or may be disturbed by wave ripples.
• The colour can be a dark rich colour depending on lighting, or shimmering ripples.

Eddy Wedge

• Turbulence from adjacent currents flowing in different directions. The wedge dissipates as it progresses further downstream.
• The water texture is often bubbly, boiling, and swirly.
• The water colour is often a mid-tone colour between that of current and eddy pool (shade of grey).

Deep Water Wave

• Deep fast water colliding with slow water and can appear as standing waves.
• The texture can be smooth top, humps on the water occurring in groups of two or more.
• The water colour on smooth waves is generally dark.

Shallow Water Wave

• Shallow water flowing over rocks creating unique crests and troughs.
• The texture is rough peaks, ripples, and valleys of water often chaotic in nature.
• The bubbles will reflect light, so the waves appear lighter in colour due to entrained air bubbles.

Summary

Using colour and texture of moving water, participants will be able to identify pertinent water features.

Controlling the Shape of the Arc with CAPT

Introduction

When maneuvering in and out of currents, solo canoes carve in arcing paths (for example, carving is the action, arcs are the resulting shape). The paddler controls the shape of these arcs by adjusting 4 key elements of the Forward or Cross Forward Stroke. These elements are stroke Cadence, Angle of the paddle shaft, Position of the paddle relative to the paddler, and Tilt. The acronym CAPT, as in “Captain your canoe”, refers to the skill of controlling the shape of the arc using Forward and Cross Forward Strokes.

Engage

The arc can be thought of as a part of the imaginary circle that is travelled when carving the canoe. An arc can be described either as a tight arc, where it is part of a small circle, or a wide arc, where the circle is much larger. When performing manoeuvres in moving water, the shape of the arc is determined by the distance between the starting point and the canoe's destination. A close target will require a tight arc, whereas a distant target will use a wide arc.

The shape of the arc can either be tight, wide or a variation in between.

Using the four elements of CAPT has a significant advantage over other methods of controlling arcs. CAPT relies exclusively on Forward and Cross-Forward strokes for control so no (or minimal) momentum is lost while steering the canoe. Valuable momentum is preserved while manoeuvring in rapids which is an asset for the solo paddler who cannot rely on the additional power of a tandem partner.

CAPT Carving Elements	Action: Tightens the inside circle		Action: Widens or changes carving direction
1.   Stroke Cadence	Slower stroke.		Increased stroke rate.
2. Stroke Position	End stroke in front of your knee.		End stroke behind the knee, toward the hip.
3. Paddle Angle	Hold your paddle vertical.		Hold your paddle inclined over the canoe.
4. Canoe Tilt	Tilt the canoe.		Flatten the canoe prior to change of direction.

The shape of the arc is controlled by the four CAPT elements.

Summary

Controlling the shape of the arc can effectively be performed by only using Forward and Cross Forward strokes and the four elements of CAPT. Cadence, canoe shaft Angle, paddle Position and Tilt can be used individually or combined to provide powerful control of a carving arc while also maintaining canoe momentum.

Canoe Design

Introduction

Canoe design is determined by several hull features. These features determine the canoe's character and specifically how the canoe carves, builds momentum and how stable it feels.

Engage

Participants will discuss canoe design and observe how these features impact performance.

Speed, stability and the ability to carve are just some of the criteria that define a canoe's overall character. Focus will be on the following hull features.

Hull Shape: The pointed ends allow canoes to move efficiently in a streamlined fashion with minimal water resistance and around arcs. This is especially helpful for navigating around river features in moving water. When a canoe is on an established carve, the canoe's pointed shape creates bow waves, which form as the canoe cuts through the water. As the canoe is moving around an arc, the size of the waves on either side of the canoe will differ - a larger wave is formed on the outside of the arc, a smaller one on the inside of the arc. The larger outer wave provides more of a pushing effect on the hull of the canoe, which causes the canoe to move into a tighter and tighter arc. These "Bow Pinning Waves" are often controlled by varying canoe momentum.

Arch: The bottom of the canoe's shape has a significant impact on overall performance. The arch describes the side to side curvature of the bottom of the canoe and plays a role in its stability. A flatter hull is more stable, while a rounded profile is less stable. In addition, arch affects the speed of a canoe. A flatter arch is slower and a canoe with more arch is faster.

Chine/Edge: The boundary between the canoe's bottom and sidewall is called chine. The sharpness of the chine affects both stability and how the canoe travels around an arc. A soft or rounded chine makes for a more progressive shift from a flat to a tilted hull making the canoe feel more stable. A sharp chine transitions from flat to tilted very quickly making the canoe feel more edgy. The soft chine does not hold a curving path around an arc as well as a sharp chine. A sharper chine allows the paddler to put the canoe on edge, providing traction while carving and preventing “skidding” (sliding sideways).

Hull Designs (illustration by Paul Mason)

Rocker: The curve of the hull from bow to stern is called rocker. Canoes with a significant rocker will pivot and turn with greater ease than canoes with a flat rocker. A pronounced rocker will also aid in carving tighter arcs in moving water.

Canoe Rocker Designs (illustration by Paul Mason)

Length: A canoe's length has a significant impact on hull speed and turning radius. Longer canoes are more efficient and will travel faster than shorter ones. Longer canoes, however, have a wider turning radius (travel wider arcs) than short canoes and may not be regarded as being as manoeuvrable.

Summary

The shape of the canoe determines its handling and performance. The combination of the shape of the ends, arch, chine, rocker and length will all affect its performance.

A deeper understanding of the canoe's shape and its relationship to carving, momentum and control enhance the paddler's performance.

River Signals

Introduction

When padders cannot speak to another, it is important to have a universal way to communicate. These basic signals are understood by most paddler to ensure they are safe, need help, or to offer direction for safe passage. When we see someone signalling, we must reciprocate to acknowledge that the message is received and understood. Though there could be regional differences in signalling traditions, it is important to have a common system with your paddling partners.

Engage

Participants will discuss and perform the following river signals where appropriate.

Stop

When there is a hazard ahead (or other issue requiring paddlers to halt), signal a 'Stop' by forming a horizontal bar with your outstretched arm or paddle. Those seeing the signal should pass it onto others on the river that may not see it. Wait for the 'All Clear' sign before proceeding.

Help or Emergency

Three (3) long blasts on a whistle while waving a paddle (or arms) overhead. If you do not have a whistle, use the visual signal only. A whistle is more convenient (and accessible) if it is attached to the life jacket/PFD.

All Clear or Go That Way

To proceed down the river put your paddle vertical in the air with the blade flat towards the others to ensure maximum visibility. You may also use your outstretched arm raised vertically. To indicate a different direction, angle your paddle or arm towards the path you wish the group to follow. Never angle the signal towards the obstacle you (or others) are trying to avoid.

Are You OK / I'm OK

Pat the top of your head repeatedly to ask if a person is ok. If you are indeed ok, respond with the same action - pat your head repeatedly.

Summary

River signals are used throughout the whitewater community when verbal communication is limited due to background sound or distance. For example, when there is a swimmer and the noise of the river makes voice communication impossible. Another example may be when the lead canoe of a trip is directing others where to go but instructions would be too faint to be heard by all paddlers. The lead canoe can use river signals to give direction and each canoe after the lead should pass the signal along to ensure the message has been received by all.

Environmental Impact

Introduction

Canoeing generally has a low environmental impact due to its lack of fuel, noise and erosion; however, paddlers do need to be aware that canoeists can affect the environment in other ways.

Engage

The following topics will be discussed, but not limited to:

• aquatic habitats from trampling,
• close approaches to wildlife (birds, fish, etc.),
• physical damage to plants from paddles on the lake beds and shoreline plants,
• wildlife disturbance,
• potential spread of invasive species (clean canoes, gear after trip),
• human-generated waste and chemical pollutants, like those from sunscreens, and
• the Leave No Trace seven principles.

Summary

Focusing on these areas enhances one's safety and comfort on the river.

Canoe History and Resources

Introduction

Canadian canoe history spans millennia, originating with Indigenous peoples as essential transport via birchbark and dugout canoes, later becoming crucial for the fur trade and colonial expansion, then evolving into sport and recreation.

Engage

Depending on the clients, the following canoe history topics are examples that could be discussed, but not limited to:

• local or national solo canoe history,
• canoe designs,
• local or national events (past or future), and
• individuals that shared their passion for canoeing.

The following are examples, but not limited to, organizations that can provide further resources to the participants:

• national paddling organizations, Paddle Canada, Canoe Kayak Canada, regional paddling organizations, clubs, and
• local, regional, or other Canadian outfitters.

Summary

The canoe has become a potent national symbol of Canadian identity, resilience, and wilderness connection, from ancient Haida dugouts to modern Olympic racing shells.

Strokes

When whitewater canoeing, paddle strokes need to be performed with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Strokes may be impacted by a variety of changing conditions not the least of which include the paddler, boat and water. Purposeful, well-timed strokes that decisively direct the movement of the canoe from point to point are the signs of efficient stroke performance.

At the Introduction skill level, paddlers need to understand the key muscle groups that support the successful and effective transfer of power from the paddle, through their body, and into canoe movement. The dominant muscles responsible for power transfer are the gluteus and abdominal muscles.

Effective strokes need to be well supported by the paddler's body. By tightening/engaging the gluteus and abdominal muscles, the body becomes a strong frame for stroke execution. Meanwhile, the smaller arm and shoulder muscles effectively “tune” the position of the paddle for all strokes which are joined to the canoe via a strong body core.

Common Terminology and Concepts

• Shaft and grip hands stacked refers to the grip hand being aligned above the shaft hand.
• Power and non-power face, indicating which side of the paddle face is pulling water.
• Onside and offside, indicates the side the paddler is paddling on.
• Paddler should have an appropriate size and style of paddle for moving water.

The participant will demonstrate the following strokes as they apply to whitewater canoeing. It is suggested that solo canoeists pick a dominant/strong paddling side. The strokes should be performed without switching hands (including when using the Cross Forward/offside strokes).

Forward and Cross Forward strokes are adjusted using “CAPT” carving techniques. Forward Strokes are completed with the power phase in the water and the recovery above water (most of the time). The Cross Forward stroke is slightly different with the recovery slicing forward in the water.

Functional Movement and Torso Rotation

For solo canoes, the functional movement necessary for forward strokes is somewhat different from that used in tandem canoes. In tandem, there are two paddlers stroking on each side of the canoe and that benefit from torso rotation. However, solo canoeists build on carving momentum using CAPT, where torso rotation is less likely to be necessary in a Class I environment.

Solo canoes also tend to be shorter and lighter and somewhat slower. They accelerate quickly but typically achieve lower hull speed compared to tandem canoes. Because of these hull characteristics, and the variable forward stroke movements encouraged by CAPT, torso rotation at the Introduction skill level may be an unnecessarily complex stroke movement for easy Class I environments.

In the more advanced skill levels, functional movement will challenge candidates by addressing torso rotation beginning at the Intermediate skill level and use full kinetic chain activation at the Advanced level.

Forward Stroke

Introduction

The Forward Stroke has two main purposes; it moves the canoe forward on a carve while using CAPT, and it is used to provide stability.

Demonstration

Explanation

• Immerse the paddle blade towards the bow with the shaft hand ahead of the grip hand.
• Tension the gluteus and abdominal muscles to support the movement of the stroke.
• Move the canoe forward by pulling the shaft hand back and pushing the grip arm forward.
• Once the stroke is completed, slice the paddle from the water by lifting the shaft hand, lowering the grip hand and rotating the blade to slice it through the air back to the start position.

Action

The Forward Stroke is often paired with carving drills using CAPT. Participants will move the canoe forward using the Forward Stroke and adapt the stroke as needed for Cadence, paddle Angle, paddle Position while carving with canoe Tilt.

Summary

Participants use the Forward Stroke to propel the canoe forward.

Cross Forward Stroke

Introduction

The Cross Forward Stroke has two main purposes; it moves the canoe forward on a carve while using CAPT, and it is used to provide stability.

Demonstration

Explanation

• On the offside, immerse the paddle blade towards the bow with the paddle nearly vertical to begin the stroke.
• Tension the gluteus and abdominal muscles to support the movement of the stroke.
• Move the canoe forward by pulling the shaft and grip hands backward by bending both elbows.
• To repeat the stroke, twist the T-grip thumb toward the bow and slice the blade toward the bow by straightening both elbows to the start position.
• Once the stroke is completed, lift the paddle from the water by dropping the grip hand and lifting the shaft hand to guide the blade over the canoe and back to the onside.

Action

The Cross Forward Stroke is often paired with carving drills using CAPT. Participants will move the canoe forward using the Cross Forward Stroke and adapt the stroke as needed for Cadence, paddle Angle, paddle Position while carving with canoe Tilt.

Summary

Participants use the Cross Forward Stroke to propel the canoe forward.

Draw

Introduction

The Draw is used to move the canoe toward the paddler's onside.

Demonstration                                                          

Explanation

1. On your paddling side, face the paddle and with hands stacked reach out from the mid-thigh with stacked hands and fully immerse the blade, parallel to the canoe.
2. Pull the canoe to the paddle while keeping the hands stacked.
3. To recover, rotate the blade 90° (thumb pointing away from the canoe) and slice it back to the starting position. Rotate the blade back 90° to repeat the stroke if necessary.

Action

The participant will execute a Draw to move the canoe towards their paddling side.

Summary

The participant will use the Draw to move the canoe towards their onside.

Cross Draw

Introduction

The Cross Draw is used to move the canoe toward the participant's offside.

Demonstration                                                          

Explanation

1. On your non-paddling side, face the paddle and reach out from the mid-thigh to fully immerse the blade, parallel to the canoe.
2. Pull the canoe to the paddle while keeping the hands stacked.
3. To recover, rotate the blade 90° (thumb pointing away from the canoe) and slice it back to the starting position. Rotate the blade back 90° to repeat the stroke if necessary.

Action

The participant will execute a Cross Draw to move the canoe towards their non-paddling side.

Summary

The participant will use the Cross Draw to move the canoe towards their offside.

Forward Sweep

Introduction

The Forward Sweep is used to pivot the canoe's bow toward the paddler's offside.

Demonstration                                                          

Explanation

1. Twist the torso, reach the paddle toward the bow of the canoe and fully immerse the blade.
2. Using the power face, untwist the torso to sweep the blade on an arc out and to the side, then to the stern of the canoe.
3. Use torso rotation to provide the power for the stroke.

Action

The participant will execute a Forward Sweep to pivot the canoe's bow away from their paddling side.

Summary

The participant will use the Forward Sweep to pivot the canoe's bow away from the paddler's onside.

Reverse Sweep

Introduction

The Reverse Sweep is used to pivot the canoe's bow toward the paddler's onside.

Demonstration                                              

Explanation

1. Twist the torso, reach the paddle toward the stern of the canoe and fully immerse the blade.
2. Using the non-power face, sweep the blade on an arc out and to the side, then to the bow of the canoe.
3. Use torso rotation to provide the power for the stroke.

Action

The participant will execute a Reverse Sweep to pivot the canoe's bow towards their paddling side.

Summary

The participant will use the Reverse Sweep to move the canoe's bow towards their onside.

Bracing with Forward Strokes

Introduction

The Forward Stroke is an important tool that can be used to stabilize a paddler.

Demonstration

Explanation

• Forward Strokes are the fundamental strokes to stabilize a paddler.
• They connect both the paddler and the canoe to the water by using the resistance created on the paddle blade.
• If the paddler begins to lose stability, they may regain balance by using the resistive force of the Forward Stroke to assist in stabilizing their body.

Action

The participant will use the Forward Stroke to re-establish stability.

Summary

The Forward Stroke should be the first option used to stabilize the participant.

Low Brace

Introduction

To stabilize the participant capsizing to their onside by utilizing water resistance against the paddle blade.

Demonstration

Explanation

Upper body

• Place the paddle horizontally and perpendicular to the gunwale with the power face pointing up.
• Both hands extend beyond the gunwale, knuckles down, in a “push up” position.
• With the paddle low and parallel to the water, push the non-power face down by pulling the grip hand up, while swinging a lowered head and arms from the onside toward the offside.

Lower body

• Meanwhile, push down the offside knee and pull up with the onside knee to level the canoe.
• Then sit up and continue paddling for continued stability.

Action

The participant will use the Low Brace to re-establish canoe and paddler stability.

Summary

The Low Brace is used to stabilize the participant and/or prevent a capsize to their onside.

Righting Pry

Introduction

The Righting Pry is an important tool to stabilize a paddler capsizing to the offside.  

Demonstration

Explanation

• On the non-paddling side, slice the paddle to a vertical position adjacent to the hip.
• Twist the T-grip to orient the paddle blade with the power face against the hull.
• Pull the T-grip down and across in front of the body. This will pry the shaft off the gunwale allowing the blade to lift water upward for stability.

Action

The participant will use the Righting Pry to re-establish paddler stability.

Summary

The Righting Pry should be used to stabilize the participant losing balance to the offside.

Stern Draw

Introduction

The Stern Draw is used by the participant to turn towards their offside.

Demonstration                      

Explanation    

1. Slice the paddle blade 45° away from the stern of the canoe.
2. The shaft hand is extended out and away from the hip and acts as a fulcrum.
3. The grip hand begins the stroke located above the onside knee.
4. Punch the grip hand outward accompanied by rotating the torso for added power.
5. To recover, slice the blade upward and out of the water and then forward to prepare for the next stroke.

Action

The participant will execute a Stern Draw to turn the bow of the canoe towards their offside. This can be used to initiate or tighten a carve.

Summary

The Stern Draw is used by the participant to turn the bow of the canoe towards a paddler's offside.

The Stern Draw is usually done after a Forward Stroke. However, if you need a quick adjustment, a Stern Draw can be done on its own without a Forward Stroke.

Stern Pry

Introduction

The Stern Pry is a short, quick stroke used by the participant to turn towards their onside.

Demonstration

Explanation                            

• Slice the paddle blade alongside the canoe toward the stern with the grip hand thumb up.
• The shaft hand is anchored behind the hip at the gunwale while the grip hand is extended beyond the gunwale adjacent to the onside knee aided by facing the paddle. This positions the blade flat against the stern of the canoe.
• Pull the grip hand quickly inward to a position above the onside knee.
• The stroke uses the gunwale as a fulcrum.

Action

The participant will demonstrate the use of a Stern Pry to turn the canoe to their onside.

Summary

The Stern Pry is used by the participant to turn the canoe toward their onside.

Most of the time the Stern Pry is done after the Forward Stroke to ensure momentum is maintained. However, if you need a quick adjustment without a Forward Stroke a single Stern Pry can be done on its own.

Risk Management

Participants should learn swimming and rescue and recovery skills commonly used in and around moving water. Through the application of these skills and knowledge, participants learn to assist themselves and others and mitigate possible risks associated with moving water environments.

Participants must be aware that swims, rescues, and canoe recovery situations are inevitable the longer one paddles in moving water. Self-rescue is often a preferred first option (where practical and safe to do so) with assistive and rope rescues often being secondary. Training and practice make these situations more manageable.

Swimming

Introduction

Participants need to be capable of swimming defensively from current to shore.

Engage

• Defensive swimmer's position (on back, feet first downstream and pointing upwards, hang onto paddle and ensure you are upstream of the capsized canoe).
• Swim backwards, laterally, towards shore.
• Swim until it is appropriate to exit the water (an eddy or less than knee deep in slow moving/calm water).

Summary

The defensive swimming position is used in current to reduce the risks of foot entrapment or striking rocks while moving towards shore.

Canoe Recovery after a Capsize

Introduction

Canoe recovery options are dependent on many elements, including participant abilities, site features and regional practices. The success of canoe recoveries are often dependent on the nature of the river, context, and personal experience. In the event of capsize, always place the safe recovery of people as the highest priority and gear second.

Engage

Participants will attempt a canoe recovery when conditions are deemed safe to do so. The safety of the rescuer and members of the group must come first. When attempting a canoe recovery, the simplest solutions are usually best.

Swimming a Canoe to Shore

• Secure the paddle in the canoe outfitting.
• Use the grab loop at the upstream end for pulling.
• First, align the canoe parallel to the current, then create a ferry angle and swim/tow to shore.

Canoe Painter Tow

• Select the painter on the upstream end of the capsized canoe.
• Pinch the painter beneath the onside knee (never tie or connect a rope to the canoe or paddler).
• Create a ferry angle and tow to shore.

Canoe "Bump"

• A rescue canoe uses their bow to bump the capsized canoe to shore.
• Begin my aligning the capsized canoe with the current.
• Next, the upstream end of the capsized canoe is pointed in the direction of travel, and the canoe is bumped to shore.

Summary

There are different options to rescuing and recovering canoes. Participants should be familiar with commonly used recovery methods in their region.

Shore Rescue - Throw Bag

Introduction

As one commonly used option on the continuum of rescue options, a shore-based throw bag rescue may provide an opportunity to reach and rescue swimming paddlers.

Engage

Participants will discuss and demonstrate throw bag rescues, while mitigating appropriate risks.

Mitigating Risk

Participants will discuss mitigating risks including:

• Securing/storing rope
• Potential swimmer entanglement
• Rescue knife
• Site safety: other paddlers, swimmers, rescuers, and shoreline environment

Rescuer - Throwing

• Shore position (downstream, within reach of the swimmer (for example, 12-15 m), clear throw, safe footing).
• Communication (visual/audio contact, call “rope”, encourage safe swimming, ongoing communication).
• Hold bag in throwing hand (with non-throwing hand pull out 2 m of rope, hold loose end), throw either under- or over-hand “to and through” the swimmer.
• Belay stance (knees bent, feet facing downstream) with the throw rope on the downstream side of the body. It may also be useful to sit down, for added stability.
• The backup person holds the rescuer's PFD shoulders.
• Pendulum the swimmer to shore.

Swimmer - Receiving

• Look and listen for direction.
• Once the rope is thrown, raise the hands to receive the rope.
• Grab the rope, ensure the rope is over the far shoulder (for example, the shoulder located 'away' from the shore you are travelling towards).
• Hold it close to the chest with both hands. Do not wrap rope around hands or any part of the body.
• Stand when it is appropriate to exit the water (an eddy or knee deep slow moving water).

Summary

Throw bags are one option used for shore-based rescues when self-rescues are not an option.

Resources

https://youtu.be/V30nUXmTEM4

Resources and Flatwater Drills

Paddle Canada recognizes the importance of getting paddlers onto moving water quickly for an exciting and enjoyable experience. Flatwater skills are the foundation for the Moving Water program. Through the introduction of flatwater drills, paddlers then move quickly to the moving water environment to enhance experiential learning.

See section Carving using CAPT