Whether you're starting out and still trying to figure out which end of the paddle goes in the water (hint: it's the wide end) or you've been paddling for a while and are trying to refine your technique, there's really no substitute for getting out on the water and getting your paddle wet.

But we know that it helps to see these things described in different ways, we're providing some links to a few websites that might help you in your quest to become a better paddler.

• http://pdxpaddling.blogspot.com/
• http://blog.paddlingcoach.com/
• http://www.dragonglobe.com/category/dragonboat-techniques/
• http://www.paddlersanon.com/stroke.php

Of course, like with just about any sport, you could ask 10 different teams what they think the best technique is, and you'd get 20 different answers. Often you'll see some similarities between teams in the region, but every team still has their own methods that work best for them based on the fitness, strength and skill level of their members. So when you're viewin these sites, please remember that these are for reference only and not intended to be strict guidelines.