The knee lift and torso motion is the basic concept behind the low and high brace, the defensive maneuvers that can help keep you rightside up. A brace requires pretty much paddle dexterity, so you should probably learn to roll first. A brace, improperly done, can put your shoulder at risk. So, many instructors prefer not to teach it unless they teach on cold water where swims are punishing.
The knee lift and torso motion is the basic concept behind the low and high brace, the defensive maneuvers that can help keep you rightside up. A brace requires pretty much paddle dexterity, so you should probably learn to roll first. A brace, improperly done, can put your shoulder at risk. So, many instructors prefer not to teach it unless they teach on cold water where swims are punishing.
Hint: It is harder to learn kayaking in cold water!
A common misconception is that leverage, getting your head up, and pressure on the blade are the keys to a good brace (or roll). This is all wrong! Easy braces require that you keep the shaft horizontal and slide the blade in close to the boat to make it easy to slide your weight over the boat. Move the blade inboard, closer to the boat, to help center your weight over the boat.
Low brace
You can learn the basics of the low brace sitting on the ground. For a low brace you will use the back, non-power face of the blade, so your elbows are directly above your hands. Tip up your boat (or imaginary boat) and then lift one knee while slapping the paddle blade on the water.
When you watch someone making a successful low brace it may appear that the paddle brings the boat right side up. This isn’t quite right. The paddle offers only momentary support while your torso and knee motion rights the boat.
High Brace
You really shouldn’t work on this until you need it for sidesurfing. It is a low percentage move until you have lots of blade finesse and dexterity. Plus, it is risky for your shoulders.
A good high brace commits your body to the water, with your elbows low, and a minimum of force on your shoulders and blade. Your hands shouldn’t move more than a couple inches from your shoulders. Your elbows should act like shocks, so keep the shaft low and in front of your shoulders. Use smooth finesse rather than power.
Overextension of your arms in an attempt to get more leverage makes rolls and braces harder, because it pulls your head and torso off center. Plus it exposes your arm and shoulder to injury. The safe finishing position for braces and rolls is with your elbows low and in close to your body. Don’t worry if you don’t save yourself with a brace or a roll. Equally important are good self rescue skills.
Safety Tip
If you have shoulder problems, seek experienced instruction to help you learn the roll and proper brace technique. If you don’t have shoulder problems, seek experienced instruction to help you avoid shoulder problems.