Unlock Your Potential: Why Training Freestyle on Flatwater Is a Game-Changer

Imagine this: no waves, no currents, just you and the stillness of the water. While some may overlook the benefits of training freestyle on flatwater, it’s time to embrace this hidden gem.

1. Strength: Flat water training requires more energy for each movement since there’s no help from currents or whitewater features. This extra effort helps build muscle strength and endurance.

2. Refine Your Technique and skill break down: You can take tricks from whitewater and break them down on flatwater to identify and correct any mistakes. This focused practice with the calmness of flatwater allows you to focus solely on your form helps you nail down the niggles, and you’ll be able to transfer your refined skills back to whitewater confidently. Breaking down tricks from whitewater on flatwater is a fun way to analyze, skill break down, and ultimately refine your technique. You can take tricks from whitewater and break them down on flatwater to identify and correct any mistakes. This focused practice with the calmness of flatwater allows you to focus solely on your form helps you nail down the niggles, and you’ll be able to transfer your refined skills back to whitewater confidently.

3. Whitewater Accessibility: Flatwater is a great option when whitewater isn’t accessible due to low water levels, location limitations, or cold weather. Training in pools or calm lakes ensures you can maintain your workout routine regardless of external conditions.

4. Maximize Your Performance: With flatwater training, you can track your progress more accurately. Consistent conditions help you monitor your speed, endurance, and technique, enabling you to make precise adjustments for peak performance.

5. Progression for Combo Moves: Flatwater is ideal for learning and practicing combo moves. The stable environment helps you break down complex sequences and gradually build up your skills, paving the way for more advanced maneuvers.

While I will always prefer whitewater features but flatwater offers its unique set of benefits, It allows me to get seat time in the boat, burn off steam, and learning new tricks and clean up tricks. So reap the Rewards: The skills you develop on flatwater translate seamlessly to whitewater. Then honing your technique in a controlled setting, you’ll be better prepared to tackle waves and currents with confidence. I highly recommend working a flatwater session into your normal kayak schedule.

Check out the youtube video with examples
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnEHsrUeUnY

Catch you on the river!

Emily