How to Kayak
An activity that most everyone seems to want to learn is How to Kayak, but all too often, people keep putting it off.
They might feel intimidated, or think they just won’t have the time to devote to it. But Kayaking is a wonderful
activity for just about anyone to learn and enjoy. Here are some of the basics on How to Kayak.
LIFTING A KAYAK:
Bend at the knees, use both hands to lift, scope out your path ahead of time, and take rests as needed.
GETTING IN AND OUT OF A KAYAK FROM THE DOCK:
The main things to remember is to stay low in the Kayak, and use your Paddle when necessary to steady yourself.
Sit on the edge of the dock with your legs dangling above the Kayak. If the water is shallow enough, touch your Paddle
to the bottom and lean it against the Kayak. If in deeper water, use the dock to steady yourself. Line up your entry position.
Swing one leg and then the other into the center of the cockpit. Crouch down, then sit. For Exiting a Kayak, simply follow
this process in reverse.
GETTING IN AND OUT OF A KAYAK FROM SHORE:
Place your paddle shaft next to the cockpit opening. Gently lean on one side and rest the Paddle Blade on the ground.
Using the Paddle to keep steady, enter the Kayak, crouch, then sit.
Use the Paddle to shove off the shore. For Exiting the Kayak, simply follow this process in reverse.
PADDLING TECHNIQUE AND GRIP:
For a balanced effect, each Paddle Stroke should be a pull on the downward stroke while the upward arm pushes the
Paddle Shaft away. Your grip should be relaxed — not too tight — overhand, with thumbs underneath. Turn your torso
into each stroke and use a steady sweeping motion. To turn the Kayak, Paddle only on the opposite side of the
direction you wish to turn.
KAYAKING AWARENESS:
Stability in your Kayak is something that comes with “feel.” Once you get a better feel
for How to Kayak, You’ll become in tune with the Kayak and know how to stay centered. Be aware of sudden
condition changes such as weather, current and wind.
KAYAKING SAFETY:
Always Kayak with a Personal Floatation Device. Leave a “Float Plan” with one or more people so that
someone always knows where you plan to be.
Thanks for reading this brief introduction on How to Kayak.
Be sure to read our other articles on How to Kayak:
Top 10 List of Kayaks
What is a Kayak – Which Kayak is Right for Me
Top 25 Places to Kayak
If buying a kayak is in your near future, as the season is approaching, we suggest you take a look at these top rated kayaks:
