by Linda Galyon
A few years ago, a friend of mine was sharing what a wonderful time she had at the FUNctional Freestyle Canoe Workshop held in New Jersey and it’s something she looked forward to every year. As a canoeist myself, I was intrigued. Is this a clinic I should add to my training journey?
As I started to research Freestyle Canoeing, I came across several videos of choregraphed canoe dancing. I was in awe as I have never seen anything like this. The paddler was moving about the canoe so gracefully controlling the boat as if it was ballet. This type of paddling or interpretive dance is not something I wanted to pursue, however, I certainly wanted to be able to maneuver my boat with such control and technique. The Pine Barrens FUNctional Freestyle Canoeing Workshop was what I was looking for and as a bonus, its local to me.
The FUNctional Freestyle Canoeing Workshop focuses on a style of canoeing that encompasses boat control techniques in a practical manner by using accurate and efficient paddle strokes and body positions that can be applied in every type of paddling trip from fast- and slow-moving rivers, twisty streams, and lakes but practiced on quiet water. The three-day workshop is held on Lake Stockwell at the YMCA of the Pines with the last day paddling a section of a local river. On the first day after we set up camp, either in a lodge, hard tent, or personal shelter, we split into groups and were assigned an instructor. Each group then paddled onto the lake to fine tune forward strokes in preparation for a more in-depth session on day two. After dinner, the entire group congregated for a “chalk talk” where we covered paddling principles, water reading, and heeling the canoe. The second day, we met again on the lake where we started to focus on our turning and sideslip maneuvers and reverse strokes if you are in the advanced groups. Then, the students assemble on a whimsical, crooked bridge where we have a great view to watch the instructors showcase their skills by maneuvering their boats with style and grace. Afterwards, we get back in our boats and have an opportunity to work with an instructor of choice to work on our newly learned strokes and ask for guidance or we can practice on our own. On the third day, we split into groups to paddle a section of the Mullica or Batsto Rivers guided by an instructor. This was a great way to put our skills to practical use.
When I was introduced to the FUNctional Freestyle Canoeing Workshop, my expectations were to fine tune paddle stokes to increase efficiency whether I was in flatwater or whitewater. To my surprise, there was so much more such as elegance, community, and a deep appreciation for experiencing nature in my canoe. Paddling season is year-round for me. During Spring through Fall, I paddle the local whitewater rivers while in Winter, I paddle moving water mainly in the Pine Barrens. For the past three years, the FUNctional Freestyle Canoeing Workshop held in October rekindles my enjoyment for the quiet, twisty, creeks and I look forward to paddling and learning with my friends new and old as part of my training journey.