Kayaking is one of the most exciting ways to explore your local waterways. Many other boats seat more than one person, but the kayak is your own personal vessel. Because it's smaller than most other paddle boats, it's more easily maneuverable if you've developed the right skills and technique. Learning basic kayak skills helps you have a fun time out on the water and stay safe.
Paddling
The most basic of all kayaking skills, paddling a kayak is different than a canoe or another boat. Due to the nature of the kayak, you're closer to the water, necessitating a different stroke. Quality paddling starts with good posture. Leaning too far forward can wear out your back quickly. As you move the paddle through the water, keeping your back straight and lean forward with your waist. Plunge the paddle as deep in the water as you can to ensure the most efficient stroke possible. Paddling isn't just for moving your kayak forward, either. You can use your paddles to stop your kayak, turn in circles or steer the kayak while moving through a current.
High Brace
In rough waters, your kayak will have the tendency to want to capsize. The high brace will help prevent a capsize and keep your body above water. You'll want to practice this skill plenty of times in calm water in case you need it out on the river. To perform the high brace, lean to one size so your kayak begins to roll over. As your roll over toward the water, hold the paddle parallel to the water. As it comes in contact with the water, use your abdominal muscles to roll your body away from the water and push your paddle against the water. These two actions will help lift your body out of the water and turn the kayak back upright.
Eskimo Roll
Probably the most famous kayak move, the Eskimo roll comes in handy for times when the water is so rough your kayak capsizes and you need to get back above water. To perform the Eskimo roll, capsize your kayak so you're upside down in the water. Don't panic. Hold the paddle at the water's surface and parallel with your kayak. Lean forward and up toward the surface of the water. Pull up on the paddle, which will cause it to come down into the water, and at the same time use your abs and legs to turn the kayak over. The leverage of the paddle combined with your body motion will cause the kayak to turn over so you're sitting up in the water again. Make sure to practice the Eskimo roll with someone on hand until you get it down in case you need help at any point.
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