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How to get started kayaking.

I've done " kayaking " before ; I bought one of those cheap Sevylor inflatable kayaks, a paddle and a pfd ( personal flotation device ( life vest ) and had a lot of fun paddling around Redondo beach and on nearby lakes. It was fun, but it was...not " real kayaking".

When you think about getting started kayaking, one of the first things to consider is what type of kayaking you intend to do.

Basically, there are two types of kayaking : sea kayaking and whitewater ( WW kayaking). The decision is usually based on budget, fitness level, tolerance for risk or danger, and geographic location.

But no matter which type you will choose, learning safety precautions and basic techniques is your first step toward many rewarding adventures. It's not something that should be done without prior instruction, practice and guidance.

A great place I found to get started kayaking in a safe, warm water, and controlled environment was at The University of Puget Sound pool.



November though May they have practice sessions at the pool for anybody who would like to try out the sport of kayaking. This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to learn basic kayaking skills to practice and those who want to improve their techniques in the safety and comfort of an indoor pool.

I was a " brand new beginner ", and during the first lesson I learned a lot : wet exit ( how to exit the kayak in the event of a capsize), forward, reverse, sweep, draw strokes, high and low braces, hand and back deck rolls, assisted T-rescues, hip snap (balance and body movement ).

The Open Pool session is not a class and you may do whatever you like during the session; but there are many friendly, helpful, experienced people who are always ready to help you and can answer any questions you might have about kayaking.

The best part ? This is the cheapest way to try out kayaking ! Two hour session, a boat, a paddle and a spray skirt will cost you just $ 15 !

2 comments:

Everyone's Travel Club said...

Thanks for the info, I've been meaning to try one of these classes.

-Paul

ExtraHyperActive said...

Welcome,
It's not really a "class ". But there are lot's of people who will be able to help you with kayaking basics and "Escimo roll".