It's a different workout from the norm. As far as switching righty lefty my routine I start off right (strong side) until I am going at a good pace. Then I alternate strong/weak side paddle stroke when I get tired. But usually 10 weak side paddle switch to 10 strong side or every mile I will switch.
Don't have pot holes I just dodge road debris, cars, cyclist, hikers, horse poop and unleashed dogs .