Aloha,
Following is a link to an article about the Science of Paddling in sync (The Science of Paddling Part 2 – Why Doubles Partners MUST be in Synch). The study was built around 2-person/tandem paddling. It was presented online in a surfski site, but was not paddle-type specific (i.e. applies to canoe and/or kayak paddling). The extrapolation can readily be made to a 6-man with only a little imagination.
If you like to curl up by the fire with supporting theory, mathematical equations, and Force-Phase graphs, click and read the paper. (http://www.surfski.info/
If your patience took the short-bus home, and you’re an “I want to know what happens at the end” kind of person, I’ll attempt to summarize in one sentence: Not only is paddling in synch absolutely vital, but the stroke profile (i.e. when/where in the stroke the power is applied) needs to be well matched too. (Note: That does not mean that the paddlers have to be the same size, strength, gender, etc. But, that they should take the same kind of stroke with force applied in the same portion of their stroke).
Warning: This may serve as good training-fodder for your coaches. Perform a cheap “party trick” and draw a beautiful paddle-force or drag-speed graph for them . J
A hui hou kakou,
David Kelly
Austin OCC Fan from California
