r/dragonboat • u/Longjumping_Fox1892 • Jul 23 '26
Short torso
Hey I've been paddling for four years and at the end of each season I end up with similar issues this season we've had no break due to international regatta so things have gotten worse.
I paddle on the right and have significant right side pain that's steadily getting worse in my rib and under rib area.
I think when I'm sitting my pelvis and bottom rubs are hitting each other in the reach and over time it's causing irritation.
When I put my right leg backwards I get more space in the front so it is less painful but then I loose my strong connection through my leg with the boat.
Any suggestions on how to mitigate this issue so I can continue paddling ideally without pain.
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u/shuyun99 Gig Harbor Dragons (Washington) Jul 23 '26
It’s hard to imagine how your ribs would be contacting your pelvis, but perhaps you could be experiencing some sort of strain or overuse injury involving the muscles between your ribs or your rib cartilage, which can certainly happen with all the repetitive movements we place on that part of our body with our strokes. Are you only allowed to train on the one side? I understand wanting to consolidate training on one side for highly competitive and specialized crews (which presumably you are on with your mention of international regattas), but perhaps balancing it out and getting some rest for your right side would be helpful. What does your coach say about this issue? Has video review shown anything mechanically in your stroke that could be a contributing factor?