Paddling a kayak involves the simple technique of alternating strokes from side-to-side. First you’ll need to adjust where you hold the shaft so that your elbows are at a 90-degree angle. The most important movement during kayaking is the forward stroke which involves rotating the blade in the water, switching from side-to-side after every stroke. For the best technique it always helps to engage your core muscles which will help slow down how quickly your arm muscles fatigue.