Again....my story is I paddle mostly on my own so this forum is my only way of tapping into some knowledge about what I should and should not be doing....
So...
if you are preparing for a race with a flatwater start, how do you nail the technique of getting a nice crisp smoooth start?
I am thinking logically that short sharp strokes to get the hull out of the water must be better than giving those early strokes too much grunt...coz when I do this it feels like with a bit too much power on the first 3 strokes I could easily pull myself off my ski. (It would be good to avoid a re-mount in the first 100 metres! )
So...again, thanks in advance dear readers if you can advise on the basics of getting the best start possible on flatwater.
(PS. I love this forum...you can learn SO much..and easily)
Janita K
Hervey Bay
Qld, Australia

Three short strokes is [was] the magic number of short strokes to use to get the boat from stop to up and begin the glide. Then begin to lengthen the stroke. By the end of 8 to 10 strokes you should be at full speed. That all depends on the strength and skill of the paddler.
You will save a lot of time if you can find a coach. Video of yourself compared to top paddlers would be a great help There is great video around of Idem [italian], Carolyn brunet{canadian] and many others. That should be available from national coaching in Aus.
I wish you success!

I've done many intervals with my training partner- we have equal speed in sprints.

I have tried different techniques off the start line. The fastest (for me) is quick short strokes with little power- just the fastest stroke rate possible for about 10 strokes. I can consistently gain a boat length every time. I do not gain or loose lead over 250 meters or so.

Yet I have experimented by starting even with other boat for 50 meters or so then put on the power, but never really gain much.

Long story short- for me, short rapid strokes till up to speed.

Scott

Start with 1 blade in the water about midcalf, when the gun goes quickly plant your other blade for your short sharpys. This will break the initial surface tension and make your start a bit smoother

PLEASE NAME THE EXACT VIDEO TITLES ON SURFSKI RACING TECHNIQUES. THANKS (USA)

http://www.kayaksport.net/ Click on technical: library,technique,training. This is put together by Mike Fekete who coached Toronto Island canoe club. The ideal thing is to find a club with a coach and some paddlers to practise with- I know, not so easy in the states.
If you are close to Canada, check for a flat water club at http://www.canoekayak.ca/ that is probably not far away.
If that doesn't work try to have someone video your paddling. You should have it analyzed by a coach though.