Greenland Paddling Instruction
You do not need your own stick! Paddles from Gearlab Outdoors are available to use during classes.
Paddle & a Pro
Classes offered may be combined with the purchase of a Gearlab Outdoors paddle for a discounted price.
Get a quality paddle paired with professional instruction to get the most out of your Greenland paddling journey.
Intro to Greenland Paddling
For the modern sea kayaker, the ‘stick’ provides power and efficiency combined with less strain and improved maneuverability and recovery options. We’ll cover:
- Advantages (and myths) of using a Greenland paddle over a Euro blade.
- Choosing the right Greenland paddle
- Strokes, bracing, and recovery techniques.
This class is a mix of theory and content taught in a classroom setting followed by time of the water for practice.
The Forward (& Reverse) Stroke
This module is designed to focus on the forward – and reverse strokes.
We’ll cover the significant differences between traditional Greenland stroke and what we are taught with a Euro blade. You’ll learn how a stick generates power.
By the end of this module, you will be on your way to a more efficient and powerful forward stroke. You’ll do less work, be able to cover more ground, and be less tired/sore after a paddle.
Basic strokes
This module is designed around the basic paddling strokes. It’s perfect for beginners and those looking to improve their skills.
- Sweep strokes for turning
- Draw stroke – static
- Bracing strokes – the low brace
These are the same strokes we do with a Euro blade, but when using a stick, there are some differences to how we perform the strokes.
I’ll introduce the concept of ‘blending strokes’ for increased efficiency.
Intermediate strokes
We’ll build on your boat control with more advanced strokes including:
- Sculling draw
- Draw on the move & the side slip or hanging draw
- Bow & cross bow rudders
- Stern rudder (draw and pry)
- Low & high brace turns
- ‘Blended’ strokes
Greenland Rolling
Coming Soon
Module pricing
- Greenland Paddling Modules (2 hours, except Intro to Greenland Paddling):
- $245 for private instruction
- $175 per person for groups of 2-5 students
Classes locations vary and can be arranged for no extra cost in your area*
– Discounts available for clubs and organizations.
– Larger groups can be accommodated by request for some modules.
*Some restrictions
Policies and disclaimers:
- On-water kayak instruction modules require a signed waiver, full immersion gear with appropriate thermal protection (wetsuit or drysuit with appropriate base layers), and an approved PFD. SUP/paddle board modules require a leash. Gloves, neoprene booties or appropriate water shoes, and a neoprene skull cap are recommended. No cotton may be worn for any on-water instruction module. Helmets and/or additional safety gear may be required for some modules.
- No gear is provided. My gear and outfitting class is recommended for beginners prior to taking on-water modules.
- Modules (with some exceptions) are open to sit in recreational kayaks and sea kayaks (including skin-on-frame, Trak, and Oru kayaks) with a minimum of front and rear bulkheads or approved flotation and SOT kayaks.
- For pool sessions, wetsuits or rash guards are recommended. (Drysuits are not recommended for pool use as they can be damaged by chlorine.)
- All modules require a signed waiver prior to participation.
- Minors 14+ may participate in select modules with a parent or legal guardian. (Exceptions can be made for younger students and for older students without a guardian present for some modules.)
- Refunds are provided in full if the student cancels prior to 72 hours before module start time, or I cancel the module. Student cancellations within 72 hours of module start time are refunded at 75% unless the module is rescheduled.
COVID 19 Health and Safety Protocols:
- Please feel free to bring/wear a mask.
- If you show any signs or symptoms (regardless of the nature of the illness) please cancel immediately.
