Instrumentation of a kayak paddle to investigate blade/water interactions

This study investigated the hydrodynamic pressure experienced by a point on a paddle during kayaking training sessions to assess paddling technique and effectiveness. A force sensor was mounted on the bottom of each blade and waterproofed, with minimal change to the blade shape. Additionally, an accelerometer was externally mounted on the kayak to measure the acceleration of the boat and an e-textile with strain sensors on the elbows was worn to monitor arm technique. These devices were synchronised in a common wireless data acquisition system. Paddler technique data such as stroke rate, stroke duration, depth of blade immersion and stroke symmetry were measured. The paddle blade pressure sensors were unable to directly measure stroke force but provided a useful synchronised measure of stroke pull time that enabled a useful technique characterisation.