Now we will practice is paddling the boat backwards in a straight line.Instructors will be separated roughly 50 yards apart and safety boaters will be interspersed along the way. Groups of paddlers will paddle in a straight line in each direction. A key element of the reverse stroke is starting with the paddle blade flat in the rear for stability. Draw the blade straight forward to propel the boat backwards. Like the forward stroke, recover once you reach the middle of the cockpit. Use a landmark on shore to help you maintain a straight line, just like rowing a boat. We will paddle backwards in both directions. For a refresher on this stroke, review the following article: Back Stroke (stopping).