Every gate session should be a technique session to some extent. During repeated gate courses many of the techniques used in racing become almost totally automatic, often performing hundreds of moves and gates in one session. The main point is to be a thinking paddler, even in the most intense and pressured situations. Technique development is best achieved when the paddler is fresh and able to concentrate. The paddler is usually ready for this after an aerobic day, or rest day.
Good technique is anything that is the fastest, and can be consistently repeated on race day.
A main aim of technique work is the development of conservation of momentum within each move, and the run as a whole. By the time of major events, the paddler should have a very clear idea of what is possible, both technically and physically. In order to carry out and adapt the training programme it is important to have feedback to indicate progress or decline in efficiency of the programme. It is necessary to have this information quickly, accurately and specifically, to achieve the performance required. It is also extremely important for motivation.