However, the blade always angles forwards and the photo clearly shows why: at the moment of the strongest pull, the shaft is not vertical in the water, but the paddle blade is. This means that the entire thrust on the blade is converted into propulsion. Without the bend, the blade would already be at an angle in the water at this stage - just like the shaft - and part of its force would not pull you forwards, but "downwards".
This is also the reason why you should not pull the paddle far behind your body. This is because precious - and limited - muscle energy is not used for propulsion and is wasted.
