Global Surfski

By  Bruce von Borstel

INTRODUCTION:

Training guidelines for the non-elite paddler are relatively hard to come by. Personal observation of training methods or the lack of training methods dictate the need for the development of a simple (non-technical) but effective training model.

The recreational racer has several obstacles:
1) race distances vary tremendously from 500 meter sprints to 30+ mile open ocean paddles and
2) training time is limited because of jobs and family responsibilities. It is evident that training time must be used effectively to maximize training effect, fitness, and race preparedness.

Paddling offers a multitude of health and wellness benefits for the general population. These include cardiovascular conditioning, musculo-skeletal fitness, weight management, stress reduction, skills and coordination development, enjoyment of the outdoors, social opportunities, friendship, and competition. Guidance in developing canoe and kayak skills, stroke mechanics, and physical competence will help to make the paddling experience more pleasurable, safer, and enduring.

TRAINING CONCEPTS

• CONCEPT I: ”Aerobic training for aerobic racing”
• CONCEPT II: ”The long training paddle”
• CONCEPT III: ”The 1000 meter time trial”
• CONCEPT IV: ”Speed strategy”
• CONCEPT V: ”Cross training”
• CONCEPT VI: ”The Heart Rate Monitor”
• CONCEPT VII: ”The Aging Athlete”
• CONCEPT VIII: ”Long Distance Paddling”
• CONCEPT IX: ”Hypothermia”
• CONCEPT X: ”The Training Balance”

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