Kayaking is a fantastic way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors during the spring and summer months. Not only do you get fresh air and a chance to check out places where you have never been, but you also get a great workout from the sport.
Kayaking is an intensive activity that will help you get in shape, while allowing you to develop skills that you did not possess before. However, the sport can be dangerous for beginners who have paddled in the past. Here are four tips from us, Shastaboyz, that we believe all kayaking beginners should know:
1. Take a Lesson
If you have never been kayaking and you do not know anyone who has a good amount of experience, it is a wise idea to take a lesson. Kayaking lessons are not expensive in almost any part of the world, because resorts and other locations want you to come and check out their facilities. Even a single lesson is a great way to understand the intricacies involved in the operation.
You will understand some of the dangers, while learning techniques that can help you as you take on the challenge yourself in the future.
2. Understand the Basics
There are many basic movements and techniques that you will need to learn if you are to succeed at kayaking. For instance, you must be able to get a good grip on your paddle and move it around in the water. If you are losing grip with your paddle, you will have a hard time maneuvering your kayak in the way that you want.
Another very helpful tip is that you should attempt to get in and out of your kayak inside the water, but near the shore. It is one of the best safety tips that I ever received when I was starting out. Most people assume they will not fall out of their kayak when they are in the water. But it can happen to the best of us. Practicing how to get back inside will ensure that if you do fall out in the middle of your trip, you can easily get back into your kayak.
3. Picking a Boat
If you have never been kayaking, it would be easy for you to think that only one or two types of models exist. Not only are there different kayak sizes depending on how many people will be on the same boat, but there are also several models. For instance, you can choose between whitewater, recreational and sea kayaks for your adventure.
Whitewater kayaks are the best option if you are a beginner. They are kitted out with many safety features, while they are easy to move around. If you are kayaking in a fast moving river or rapid, you will have a lot of fun with a whitewater kayak. As you step up a level, you can try out recreational kayaks on slow moving rivers and inland lakes.
4. Invest in a Paddle
Aside from picking the kayak suitable for your skills and the place where you are kayaking, it is also wise to invest in a paddle. Having a great paddle that is suitable for your kayak will ensure that you have a comfortable experience in the water. While it is an investment, these paddles are very durable and should last you for many years’ worth of trips.
By following these four tips, you should have a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience. As an aside, we would also recommend that you pack appropriately for your trip! Ensure you have enough spare clothes, accessories, medicine and food items if you are going for the whole day or multiple days. Make sure you have a dry bag to store them, there are special bags for kayakers which are waterproof and some can even also act as a cooler.
Do your homework, prepare right and enjoy kayaking to its fullest. It’s a fantastic sport!