Long use of just one paddle can allow
Posted by: g2d
on Nov-03-12 1:33 PM (EST)
little variances to creep in, plus what we psychologists call "reactive inhibition." Switching to another paddle that requires a little different approach, and that gives a different "feel," can mean that your alternate stroke is working efficiently.
When cruising my 15' whitewater boat on easy rivers, I switch between a 61" Mitchell slalom with a curved blade, and a 60.5" homemade 5 degree bent shaft with a flat blade. Not much difference in style, but enough difference in feel to remove some inefficiencies.