Guiding Rafts: Proper technique for a J-Stroke

A J-Stroke is a combination stroke that propels a raft downstream. The stroke can be made from any position in the raft, but is more effective from the center to back sections of the raft. It is a combination of a long forward stroke and  a short recovery pry stroke.

Reach paddle forward alongside raft. Pull paddle back as if doing a strong forward stroke. Bring the shaft of the paddle to a pivot point, raft or hip, and then pull t-grip across your body moving blade at 90 degrees to raft. Bottom hand may have to slide up shaft before shaft is set for pivot. The forward stroke moves the raft downstream and turns the raft in the direction opposite the paddler. The short pry stroke counteracts the turning of the raft and keeps the raft straight. The secret to propelling a raft downstream without it turning is to find the balance of power  between the forward stroke and the pry. Aggressive J-strokes can move a raft aggressively if paddled alone or can help a crew drive a raft in the proper downstream direction.