I've been training for a long distance paddle - and generally go out about 4 times a week. 2 times a week I generally go for about 6.5 miles and the other two I'll go on average around 8.

However, my lower back is the first to start to give. I'm not sure if that's because it's getting stronger, or because I'm doing something wrong. I fear the later but I'm not sure. I normally use the Tahitian stroke and do a lot of 'forward folding' to get as much reach as possible. I stack my shoulders and make sure the paddle is vertical.

Any ideas if this is common or if there are certain things I should be cautious of? For what it's worth, it feels like I'm using my lower back and upper shoulders more than I'm using my abs.

Thanks for any advice.

Cheers,
Phillipe