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Edge Control for Whitewater Kayaking | How to Stay Stable and Turn with Ease

Author(s): Anna Levesque
Video Release Date: October 16, 2025
Video Source: YouTube

Want to feel more stable, confident, and in control in your kayak? In this video, I break down one of the most important skills in whitewater kayaking — edge control.

Learning how to hold and use your edges can completely transform your paddling. Edge control helps you:
Turn your kayak smoothly without overusing your paddle
Stay stable when crossing currents or peeling out of eddies
Accelerate and maneuver with more precision and flow

In this whitewater kayaking tutorial, I’ll show you:
The difference between lifting your hip vs. sinking into your edge
How to engage your side body for better boat control
Why relaxing your hips (“loose hips, safe ships”) keeps you upright and balanced

Whether you’re a beginner kayaker learning the basics or an experienced paddler refining your technique, mastering edge control will help you build confidence on every river run.

I’m Anna Levesque — coach, paddler, and founder of Mind Body Paddle. I help paddlers like you build confidence, skill, and mental agility — on and off the water.

The best seller used by outdoor programs across the country as a resource and textbook. 

Available in paperback, E-book, and now as an Audiobook at Amazon.com