Paddling a kayak requires to acquire the understanding of quite complex set of mechanics. But noting is more important than a correct paddle set-up or grip. Two of the most decorated Olympic paddlers, Greg Barton (USA) and Antonio Rossi (ITA) show you the correct paddle grip. To do the same:

1. Position yourself in front of a mirror
2. Hold your paddle on top of your head
3. Bent your arm to achieve a 90 degrees or slightly less angle between your arm and forearm.

Greg Barton is showing you the "mirror" view, Antonio Rossi is showing the correct set-up while cheering for his 1996 K-1 500 meters gold medal.

Seating position

A correct seating stance is fundamental for setting up stroke mechanics. The scheme below, from the FICK (Italian Federation Canoe-Kayak, coaches training program) shows the correct seating stance angles.

During the stroke, all this angle will change due to the push pull action except for the back stance (spine) which, could be described as "leaning slightly forward".

It is fundamental to start correctly, learn to acquire this position "automatically":

1. Position yourself in front of a mirror, SIDEWAYS
2. Position a kayak seat or some other object like some books, to elevate yourself 3/4 inches (about 10 cm)
3. Review the angles with this drawing or have somebody correcting you
4. Finally, hold your paddle as described above in the "paddle holding/grip" section.
5. Repeat until it becomes a "natural position".