Kayaking refers to a recreational sport that utilizes a lightweight boat. The kayak has certain basic similarities with the conventional canoe yet has certain defining characteristics. The kayak sits lower to the water than a canoe and is often constructed with a fiberglass material. The kayak also commonly features a covered top with an opening referred to as the cockpit. Single-person kayaks also have a shorter length than the longer canoe, allowing for increased speed and maneuverability. Kayaking commonly takes place in the ocean as well as lakes and rivers.
Step 1
Transport your kayak and paddle down to the edge of a body of water. Place your kayak close to the shore while allowing it to float. Lower your kayaking paddle down onto the shore beside your kayak. Place one hand onto each of the opposing ends of the cockpit located approximately in the middle of the kayak.
Step 2
Insert your legs into the cockpit while lowering yourself down onto the seat of the kayak. Lift the handle off the shore. Place your hands around the middle of the paddle shoulder length apart. Push off the shore with one of the blades of the paddle, located on the opposing ends.
Step 3
Extend the left blade of your kayaking paddle forward. Insert the blade into the water while ensuring the blade remains perpendicular with the left side of your kayak. Pull the blade back through the water to propel your kayak forward. Repeat this series of motions with the right blade of the paddle on the opposing side of your kayak.
Step 4
Rotate paddling with the left and right blade until your kayak reaches a comfortable speed. Insert the left blade into the water on the left side of the cockpit while keeping the blade perpendicular to your kayak. Push the left blade forward through the water to turn the front end of your kayak to the left.
Step 5
Insert the right blade into the water on the right side of the cockpit. Push the blade forward, while keeping it perpendicular to the kayak, to steer the front end of your kayak to the right. Practice these paddling and turning techniques to master the basics of kayaking. Paddle back to shore once your arms begin to get tired.
Tips and Warnings
- Wear a life jacket to keep yourself afloat if you happen to fall out of the cockpit. Always wear a helmet when kayaking in rivers. Never drink alcohol when operating your kayak.
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