Terminology

Set it up

All paddlers in the boat sit up in the same position with their paddles held in the same position. Paddles are in a relaxed position, parallel over the water pointing forward at about a 45 degree angle.

Paddles ready

Paddles above the water ready to take the first stroke.

Stable

Resting the paddle shaft on the gunwale and paddle blade flat on the water. To stabilise the boat especially when changing sides.

Let it run

Paddling stops and boat coasts to a stop on its own.

Hold water

Bringing the boat to a full stop with the use of paddles (dig in paddles).

Draw water

Draw stroke for either right or left side, used most often by front or back paddlers to line a boat up straight. – Lean out and place paddle perpendicular to the side of the boat and draw towards the boat.

Back paddle

The stroke used to bring a boat backward into a race start. Paddlers take the stroke from the paddler in front of them.

Power

Power surge usually but not limited to the count of 20 strokes. Power stroke is used to propel the boat forward by everyone using maximum power pulling back hard at the same time.

Are you ready?

Race command in a start situation for paddles to be in the position for first stroke on start gun. Paddle blades are 1/4 in the water at the beginning of the stroke phase.

Attention

2nd race command as above – Paddles in the water, ready to take first stroke.

Go / start gun

Command to begin paddling, dig into water and strong pull.