New Jersey Boating Certification Practice Test

What technique can paddlers use to prevent capsizing?

1. Increased paddle force

2. Low center of gravity with three points of contact

3. Constantly changing position

4. Two-person paddling only

The correct answer is: Low center of gravity with three points of contact

The correct answer highlights the importance of maintaining a low center of gravity and having three points of contact with the watercraft to prevent capsizing while paddling. This technique ensures stability, as lowering the paddler's center of gravity helps reduce the risk of the boat tipping over. By keeping three points of contact—this could involve two feet and a sitting position or a hand on the side—paddlers can create a more stable platform, allowing for better balance and control on the water. A low center of gravity, combined with those three points of contact, helps distribute weight evenly and enhances the boat's stability, especially in rough water or while making sudden movements. This approach is fundamental in various paddling disciplines, making it a key strategy for safe navigation. Other techniques, such as increased paddle force or constantly changing position, may introduce more unintentional movement or instability, leading to a higher risk of capsizing. Similarly, relying solely on two-person paddling does not inherently prevent capsizing, as it depends on the skill and coordination of both paddlers. Therefore, maintaining a low center of gravity with multiple points of contact is the most effective method for enhancing stability and preventing capsizing in a paddling environment.