If you enjoy spending time on the water without the racket of a motor or the hassle of a sail, then kayaking might be right for you. A kayak can not only provide you with a peaceful peek at nature, but it can be a good form of exercise, too. Kayaking is easy to learn, doesn't require much equipment and is relatively inexpensive.
Choose a Waterway
One of the reasons kayaking has become such a popular pastime is because it can be done in just about any body of water. Kayaks can be safely paddled everywhere from shallow ponds to deep lakes and from flowing rivers to rough seas. But before you shove off on your first trip, you'll need to know what kind of water you'll be paddling in and how you intend to use your kayak.
Choose a Kayak
There are two basic styles of kayaks--a sit-in kayak and a sit-on-top kayak. Both styles can hold up to three people and are suited for beginners. Many novice paddlers prefer the sit-on-top varieties, though, because they are less restrictive and they eliminate the fear of being stuck in the boat if it capsizes.
Another key decision is size. Kayaks range from about 6 feet to more than 20 feet. In general, the longer the kayak, the faster it will go. Because shorter and wider kayaks provide more stability and more control, many beginners opt for those features.
Kayaks can be inflatable, and they can be made from wood, plastic, fiberglass and anything in between. Plastic boats are a good choice for beginners because they are inexpensive--starting around $250 (as of 2010)--and durable. Inflatable kayaks are also an inexpensive option--they can be priced as low as $80--and are a good choice if storage is an issue.
Pick a Paddle
Like the kayaks they propel, there are a wide variety of paddles. The most important factor is your height. Tall kayakers should use a longer paddle than short kayakers. Lightweight paddles with a two-piece shaft are good options for beginners. Some kayaks even come with a pedaling device, which helps if you plan to explore very shallow water.
Learn the Motion
Paddling a kayak looks much more complicated than it actually is, and beginners can quickly learn the proper motion. Place your hands on the shaft just beyond shoulder width apart, reach forward and dip the blade as close to the side of the kayak as possible. As you pull back with one hand, push forward with the other. Repeat this motion, over and over, and you'll be picking up speed in no time.
Safety Tips
The best way to decrease the risks associated with kayaking is to wear a personal flotation device. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 34 kayaking fatalities in 2008, and 30 of those were due to drowning. Of those deaths, 21 were not wearing their life jackets. Other things you should consider wearing are helmets, wetsuits, sunglasses and sunscreen. It's also best to bring a buddy.
Benefits
Most people kayak because it's fun and relaxing, but there are health benefits as well. The paddling motion is not only a low-impact way to burn calories, but it also builds muscle strength in all parts of your body. And as for all that fresh air, well, there's no telling all the long-term benefits you'll get from that.
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