By Matt Imes

Almost all of our warm-ups include some form of pause drill. This clip shows two points: first at hands away, later at body angle. The pause is used as a reference point to “gather” and unify the stroke cycle. We emphasize relaxation from the finish of the stroke to the pause point, making sure that everyone is together as they come to the pause point. Then, emphasis is placed from the release of the pause to be relaxed and fluid, as you come into the catch and placement of the blade.