New to dragon boating? This page is a good place to start.
Dragon boating is a team paddling sport built on timing, rhythm and working together. You do not need experience to begin, but learning the basics can help you feel more confident before you get in the boat.
The videos and resources below are a helpful introduction to paddling technique, warm-ups, drumming and common beginner mistakes.
Every crew and coach may teach technique slightly differently, so treat these resources as a guide only.
Your coach is your best source of advice. They can see how you move in the boat, help you adjust your technique and give you feedback that suits your crew’s paddling style.
Paddle Chica is a helpful dragon boating resource with paddling tips, training ideas and stories from people involved in the sport.
It is a useful place to explore if you want to learn more about technique, fitness, mindset and the wider dragon boating community.
The following videos are not produced by Auckland Dragon Boat Association, but they may help you understand some of the basics before training.
Use them as a starting point, then check in with your coach for advice specific to your crew.
A crash course in what to expect and the basics of how to paddle.
Video: Dragon Boating for Beginners
Created by: Paddles Up
A closer look at the dragon boat stroke and how the different parts of the movement work together.
Video: Let’s break it down
Created by: 22 Dragons
“Chicken winging” is a common beginner habit where the elbow lifts out to the side during the stroke.
This video explains how to avoid it and build a cleaner, stronger paddling movement.
Video: Chicken Wings and How to Stop It
Created by: Paddles Up
Warming up helps prepare your body for training and can support better movement in the boat.
This video gives simple warm-up ideas for paddlers before getting on the water.
Video: Warm-Up for Paddling
Created by: Paddles Up
The drummer helps set the rhythm of the boat during racing and supports the crew’s timing and energy.
This video introduces the role of the drummer and how they help keep the crew connected.
Video: Drumming for Dragon Boating
Created by: Paddles Up
Videos can help you understand the basics, but dragon boating makes the most sense once you feel the rhythm of the crew around you.
Ask questions, listen to your coach, keep practising and give yourself time to learn. Everyone starts somewhere.
Ready to paddle?
Visit Meet our Clubs to take the next step.