The “J” Stroke
To navigate a canoe without changing the paddle from side to side, one must master the “J” stroke. Both my husband and I are quickly learning how to perform this stroke efficiently, in coordination with each other. The “J” stroke keeps the canoe on a straight path, and allows the canoeist to be in charge of direction.
Before we knew about this stroke our path was a hilarious zig-zag, with frantic changing of paddles from one side to the other, dripping water inside the canoe during the change. We felt silly and hoped no one was watching. We are getting better, and stronger every day.
Gail Niebrugge, Alaska Artist
