This is a concise manual for learning and improving paddling skills. Alderson's tips will help you paddle faster and with less effort, turn your kayak with greater ease, and keep your head above water using quick and effective bracing techniques. Alderson describes how the forces of wind and water affect directional control of a kayak, providing information on how to choose the most effective stroke at the right time. You won't have to struggle in the wind if you use the strokes that let the wind do some of the work for you. You can learn to save your energy and keep your kayak moving when waves and current are trying to push you around. This is a teaching and learning guide with sensible text and clear illustrations - an invaluable resource for paddlers and instructors.

Table of Contents

Introduction; Edge Control; Bracing; Forward Stroke; Sweep Strokes; Rudder Strokes; Brace Turns; Draw Strokes; Rolling; Blended Strokes.