Hello TLC Paddlers, I recently completed a 500m outrigger time trial in Tampa, clocking in at 2:25.13 - a time I'm both proud of and eager to improve upon. I wanted to share this experience with you because the lessons learned apply directly to your paddling journey, regardless of your current level. This result didn't happen overnight. It represents: - 4-6 weekly water sessions focusing on technique refinement and hard intervals - Deliberate warm-up and recovery protocols to maintain performance - Mental preparation techniques to maintain focus during maximum effort During the time trial, I focused on several technique principles: - **Patience at the catch**: Ensuring full blade burial before applying power (but it happens lightning fast during the time trial) - **Acceleration through the stroke**: Progressive power application rather than an immediate "hit" - **Maintaining connection**: Keeping the blade fully engaged throughout the power phase - **Consistent cadence**: Finding the optimal stroke rate for sustained power, should be on the high side to get that fast score The most valuable insight from this experience is that improvement comes from consistent application of fundamentals. The same principles we practice in our sessions are what drive performance at every level. When you feel challenged by a drill or technique adjustment we're working on, remember that these small refinements compound over time. Trust the process - the stopwatch eventually reflects the work. I'll be analyzing the footage from this time trial to identify areas for improvement in my own technique. This continuous self-assessment is something I encourage all of you to embrace - we never stop learning on the water. I'm excited to bring these fresh insights into our upcoming programming. As always, I'm grateful for your trust in me as your coach, and I'm inspired by your dedication to improving your paddling teknique. See you on the water! Coach Tek --- P.S. I've posted the full time trial video on my Youtube if you'd like to see these principles in action. Your comments and questions are always welcome! I recommend lowering the volume a bit because the seat squeaked A LOT hahaha