What is the Recovery?

In paddle boarding, the recovery phase refers to the part of the paddle stroke where you lift your paddle out of the water and reposition it for the next stroke. Unlike the power phase where the paddle is driving through the water, the recovery phase is about efficiency and setting up the next stroke optimally.

Why is the Recovery Phase Important?

The recovery phase is often overlooked by beginner paddlers. They tend to focus on the power phase of the stroke - where the paddle is in the water propelling the stand up paddle board forward. However, neglecting the recovery phase can lead to inefficient strokes, wasted energy, and slower speeds.

The importance of the recovery phase in paddle boarding cannot be overstated. It serves as the crucial bridge between strokes, dictating the rhythm and effectiveness of your paddle boarding technique. A hasty or sloppy recovery could disrupt the fluidity of your strokes, leading to uneven paddling, erratic movement of your board, and excessive energy consumption. The paddle board, be it an inflatable paddle board or a solid board, requires a seamless transition from one stroke to another to maintain consistent speed and direction, underlining the crucial role the recovery phase plays.

Moreover, the recovery phase presents a unique opportunity to enhance your paddle boarding skills. By paying close attention to this phase, you can improve your overall body coordination, core strength, and balance on the board. Mastering the recovery phase helps you refine the nuanced, often-overlooked aspects of paddle boarding technique, which can give you an edge in competitive scenarios or challenging water conditions. Whether you're a beginner paddler on an inflatable stand up paddleboard or an experienced paddleboarder on a touring board, perfecting the recovery phase is a stride towards efficient, effortless paddling. The recovery phase, thus, stands as an essential component in the pursuit of paddleboarding mastery.

Long Distance Expeditions

For paddlers on long distance expeditions, where energy conservation is key, an efficient recovery phase can make all the difference. It's the opportunity to let your muscles rest momentarily, minimizing fatigue over long distances.

Paddling Speed and Skill Levels

The recovery phase also influences your paddling speed. A well-executed recovery allows you to maintain a high stroke rate, meaning you can paddle faster. This is critical in racing scenarios or when you are trying to fight against a strong current. As skill levels increase, so too does the importance of an efficient recovery phase.

How to Execute the Recovery Phase Properly

Executing the recovery phase properly begins the moment your paddle leaves the water at the end of the power phase.

Lifting the Paddle

Start by lifting the paddle out of the water quickly but smoothly. The goal is to minimize water resistance and splashing. Use your lower hand to control the angle and elevation of the paddle.

Repositioning the Paddle

As the paddle clears the water, rotate your shoulders and torso to reposition the paddle towards the front of the board, ready for the next stroke. This rotation should be smooth and controlled, engaging your core muscles.

Re-entry

The re-entry of the paddle back into the water marks the start of the next stroke. It should be as smooth as possible, with the paddle slicing cleanly into the water to reduce splash and maintain forward momentum.

The Recovery Phase and Different Paddle Boards

The recovery phase can be slightly different depending on the type of paddle board you are using.

Inflatable Paddle Boards

Inflatable paddle boards are often more unstable than solid boards, making a smooth recovery phase even more important. A jerky recovery can unbalance the board and slow you down.

Solid Boards

On a solid board, the recovery phase can be a bit more aggressive, especially if you are racing. Solid boards are typically more stable and can handle a faster, more powerful recovery.

Multi Person Paddle Boards and Tandem Paddling

On multi person paddle boards or when tandem paddling, synchronization during the recovery phase is key. If one person is in the recovery phase while the other is in the power phase, it can create an imbalance and decrease speed.

Conclusion

The recovery phase of the paddle stroke is just as important as the power phase. By focusing on your recovery technique, you can increase your paddle board's speed and stability, make your strokes more efficient, and save energy on long distance expeditions. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, grab your paddle board and hit the water. With time and patience, you will see a significant improvement in your paddling technique.