Abstract

A new method of selecting kayak paddle length was presented, based on a model and direct measurements. It was assumed that the principal factors determining the optimum length of paddle are the athletes build and his position when sitting in the kayak. Further factors are the athletes actual power and mechanical parameters of the paddle (weight and rigidity). In members of the Polish inational Team the most important morphological parameters and those related to load characteristics (the depth of immersion of the kayak, elevation of the seat above the kayaks bottom, etc.) were measured. From an equation presented in this paper the paddle lengths were computed for individual kayakers by taking different adjusted measurements and data from the literature. Verf.-Referat