Hi,

To frame my question: I have been kayaking for about 25 years now and am a 4 star BCU paddler, so I am an experienced paddler and I believe that my forward stroke is descent (although I would admit that of all the various strokes I think this one is hardest to master). And I am an avid weight lifter and don’t have any issues with muscle strength

I had to take a two-year break from kayaking. Before my break I noticed that I was getting a lot of muscle fatigue and associated pain in my left shoulder. I started paddling again recently and noticed the same thing. Within 5 minutes of paddling it becomes very uncomfortable for me and I have to stop paddling every five minutes or so becuase my left shoulder is fatigued. It’s now hard for me to paddle at all and to becuase of this.

I use a Werner Cyprus bent shaft at a 30 degree right offset and a right control hand. It is always my left shoulder that is an issue. I never have any issues with my right shoulder. I am also a canoeist and I am more comfortable paddling on the right side than left so I think my form is better on that side perhaps.

I am guessing that this is likely a form issue, or perhaps a biomechanical issue. I do have bad shoulders and shoulder impingement.

Can anyone give me some form issues that may help with this? I am being careful to exercise good form and to ensure that I make the paddle exit the water soon enough that I am not lifting water.

FWIW I have a GP as well and it produces less fatigue with my shoulder but does nto solve the issue

thanks

Matt