käesõudmine

Käesõudmine, also known as hand rowing, is a method of water propulsion that utilizes the hands as oars. This technique is employed in various watercraft, ranging from small personal flotation devices to larger vessels. The primary action involves scooping water with the hands and pushing it backward, generating forward momentum.

The effectiveness of käesõudmine depends on several factors, including the paddler's strength and technique, the water conditions, and the design of the watercraft. In calm waters, it can be a surprisingly efficient way to move, especially for short distances or when other propulsion methods are unavailable. However, in strong currents or rough seas, its efficiency is significantly reduced.

Käesõudmine is often seen in recreational activities such as swimming, where individuals might use their hands to propel themselves through the water. It can also be a survival technique for those who find themselves adrift without conventional means of navigation. In some traditional or improvised watercraft, hand rowing might be the primary or only method of propulsion. The simplicity of the technique makes it accessible to most individuals, requiring no specialized equipment beyond the watercraft itself. While not as powerful or efficient as traditional rowing or paddling with oars or paddles, käesõudmine offers a fundamental way to interact with and move across water using only one's own body.