Upper Body Kinematic Analysis of the Paddling Stroke in Female Recreational Stand-up Paddle Boarders

Abstract

The aim of this study was to quantify differences in self-taught paddling techniques in four female, recreational stand-up paddle boarders. Three-dimensional, kinematic data of the stroke were collected, bilaterally to determine joint angles and range of motion (ROM) of the shoulders, elbows and trunk, segmental velocities, stroke length, stroke rate and the duration of drive and recovery phases in simulated stand-up paddling (SUP). Participants demonstrated significant (p< 0.05) bilateral asymmetries in ROM and joint angles. Substantial inter-participant variations were seen in joint angles at start, mid and end drive, joint ROM and stroke length. These findings assist those within the SUP community to understand self-taught SUP paddling technique.