Learning to kayak was on my bucket list this summer, so I took a introductory course at Charles River Canoe and Kayak in early July. While anyone can kayak, there is much to learn about this invigorating and relaxing activity.
First of all, the kayak has got to fit you like a pair of pants. Once you are properly fitted in the right kayak for your adventure: recreational, light touring, sea touring…. whitewater, you can get started. Safety is key, a proper personal floatation device is a must! If you fall out, you should most definitely know how to get back in. In class, we practiced two person: T rescues and self rescues, all by rolling the kayak and performing a “wet exit.”
Kayaking is humbling, because you’re so close to nature, the water, other kayakers and boaters. You need to paddle relaxed and not muscle through the different strokes with your arms. The physical aspects of kayaking demand flexibility, stability, balance, and core strength. The emotional and intellectual aspects of the sport use both your right and left brain, making this a lifelong activity of varying degress of challenge. You must remain calm, use your common sense and be prepared for emergencies and know how to respond appropriately. Kayaking engages all of you! If you’ve never done it – give it a try!
