The method he refers to in stating that he seldom uses the J-stroke IS one form of paddling on just one side of the boat. The fact that it's not a J-stroke doesn't imply anything about reach. It seems that g2d has real proficiency in keeping a solo canoe on a proper heading via other methods than the simple J-stroke.
Actually, upon reading some of the other posts in this part of the thread I've become confused, because your post is a reply to g2d but it refers to content of Pete's post rather than to anything in the post of reference.
In any case, going back to the topic of the post you replied to, I personally find that a "true" J-stroke imparts an extremely brief corrective thrust which is directed straight sideways or diagonally rearward, and in either case, there's no drag imparted. This is not at all similar to the ruddering action that is usually associated with J-stroke-induced drag (ruddering action is the method of correction used by the vast majority of people during their J-stroke (If you pause at the end of the stroke with the blade in the water, you are ruddering)). I think that not everyone needs to work toward anything beyond a really "good" J-stroke as a first step to boosting their efficiency quite a lot. However, that's a long way from being the same as saying I disagree with what g2d is trying to say. More specifically, I tend to think that becoming good at the technique he uses is something most average paddlers need not aspire to, but even if I'm right about that, it doesn't make him wrong.
Celia, your advice from a woman’s perspective is really appreciated. I’m with you on the “off hand” comment, and I expect we both enjoy the outdoors similarly.
Everyone, you have given me so much great advice and lots to think about. I have enjoyed everyone’s input - it’s like reading a book on canoeing (of which I have a couple),and I’m digesting it all as I get closer to my decision. One thing I do wonder about, though, is this “turning it on the side”, because I don’t anticipate anytime in the canoe sans my buddy, the dog and so far I haven’t been able to train her to sleep vertically.
Lots to think about - I am ever grateful - as I learn better to paddle from the rear instead of up front.
Well, Bob Foote is teaching it, and Wayne Dickert and Kent Ford taught it. I fell into “cab forward” technique without realizing it.
I did a little survey on cboats.net, and found that most paddlers knew exactly what I was talking about.
But as I said, in the stern, it’s either hit and switch (if the hull favors that) or J-stroke, or the old time rudder or goon stroke. But I’m convinced that the way most stern paddlers J-stroke, they’re dragging the boat as if they were ruddering.
One additional thing I noticed in the stern, is that if I get a good forward reach and a firm catch, and start recovery at the hip, much less J stroke is needed.
Don’t know if the dog will put up with Canadian style paddling in a tandem where the boat is constantly heeled to the onside. I tend to think she would cozy up in the low side. Perhaps someone with a dog will chime in.