: SNIP

: Expect it to take much longer than two hours to get the technique. Although
: there is much overlap, you will have to learn some new techniques. The
: symptoms you have mentioned are all very common and indicate that your
: technique needs refinement. I'd recommend that you check out the technique
: articles on the Qajaq USA site at
: http://www.qajaqusa.org/Technique/Technique.html . Also review the
: videoclips and posts on the Greenland forum.

: The canted blade technique, where the top of the blade is tilted forward, is
: a popular stroke method. Among its benefits are that it controls flutter
: and ventilation, and produces a strong "bite" in the water. With
: proper technique you will find that the paddle drips land on your
: foredeck. Water should not be running down your arms to your armpits.
: Generally your elbows will remain low and somewhat close to your sides.

: Assuming that you made a "shouldered" paddle, only your thumbs and
: forefingers should encircle the paddle shaft. Your other fingers will be
: draped over the roots of the blades. This requires a shaft length of about
: shoulder-width apart.

: Have fun!

: Greg Stamer

Greg,
Thanks for the input... it's good to know that I'm on the right track here. I thought that might be the case, I just need to get used to using the paddle.

It seems that a lot of people who convert stay converted. In my case, it's learn to use this paddle or not paddle for the remainder of the season, that's unacceptable. I've been looking forward to fall paddling all year, so I'm going to figure out the greenland paddle and who knows I may grow to love it as much as the rest of you. I'll take you advice and do a little reading on the technique and see what I can do to improve mine.

I kind of figured out angling the blade for better bite on the first outing. I tried a bunch of presentation angles of the blade to water. It seemed that too much angle gave me a diving paddle, to0 little and it didn't feel as if I was getting enough bite to be efficient.