Learn to Kayak:
From Easy Paddling to Extreme Adventures

The basic instructions for kayaking are similar to those for most water sports such as canoeing, white water rafting etc. It is recommended that you take a basic class that teaches about kayaking and the basics you need to know before you go out on a kayak. It is also a good idea to always go out kayaking with a friend or two.

Many Kayaks are built for two people. There are also kayaks for singles, and groups of threes and fours. Some people love the silent, methodical motion and the feel of gliding across the water all alone and undisturbed—however, if you are kayaking for the first time, or if you are just a beginner, it is not the best suggestion to go out alone on the water—in case something goes wrong.

The following are a few examples of the basic rules of kayaking. These will be important to know—preferably first hand from an instructor. Many kayaking resorts offer kayaking lessons for beginners that include both instruction and in-water adventure. So do not be intimidated. This is a wonderful summer sport I know you would hate to miss out on.

·First you need to know how to stretch your muscles before kayaking:

Kayaking is an extreme exercise for your upper body muscles. You will want to stretch out your arms very well, and if you already have some muscle tone to your arms and back—you will have a great advantage because you will not get tired as quickly as someone who is not as strong.

However, kayaking on a regular basis is a great way to build upper body strength, too. So if you live nearby a suitable place for kayaking—you may want to consider using this fun, relaxing and popular sport as a form of exercise you will be sure to enjoy.

·How to properly sit in a kayak:

You will want to make sure that you sit in the kayak correctly from the beginning, you will need to know the proper way to sit so that your boat does not become unstable and you do not risk tipping over. This is fairly easy to do many kayaks make it very self-explanatory and comfortable as well. However, it is much better demonstrated than described.

·How to hold your paddle:

As with canoeing etc, you will need to know how to hold your paddles so that you can maintain a firm grip as well as the capability to steer the kayak the way you want.

·Proper paddling techniques:

Of course, you will have to know more than just how to grip the paddle, but how to use your paddle for steering. It is easy to get stuck turning your kayak in circles, which can not only be frustrating but also hold you back and separate you from the rest of the group.

·Rules of the waterways:

There are many kinds of kayaks, ocean kayaks, river kayaks and kayaks designed for use on lakes or stiller waters. For every kind of body of water you kayak there will be certain rules that pertain to the dangers of kayaking in such types of waters, what to expect, and how to best manage your kayak once you are out there having fun.

No matter what kind of kayaking you do this season, make sure you know what you need to in order to exercise the most caution and keep yourself safe while having a great time. Kayaking has always been a favorite sport of mine, as well as my entire family. It is an activity we can all enjoy together.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on recreation please visit Kayaking Trips.

Video: How to Paddle a Kayak and Not Fall Out

How to Paddle a Kayak & Not Fall Out!

Kayaking Gear - What to Get:

 Kayaks for Sale on eBay

• Kayaks, Canoes & Rafts
  Get the lowest guaranteed price on all sorts of kayaks - with Free shipping and No sales tax. Excellent selection: whitewater, recreational, sea kayaks - plus sit on top, fishing and inflatable kayaks. >> How to Buy a Kayak
  
  
• Amphibious Footwear by Teva
  Cool sports sandals and shoes made to be worn in and out of the water, excellent traction, comfort and "drainability"
  
  
• Waterproof Socks & Gloves
  Get watereproof warmth without losing dexterity - and when you're not kayaking, you can use them on your ice climbing adventures.
  
  
• Kayak Roof Racks for Cars
  Check out how much money you can save on kayak carriers. Some carry up to 4 whitewater kayaks with all necessary mounting hardware conveniently included.

Kayak Schools, Tours & Places to Go:

• Places to Paddle
  Worldwide directory of places to kayak, canoe and raft. Great photos and comprehensive reviews. You can get a good feel for what each trip is like.
  
  
• Find a Kayak School
  Pre-screened whitewater rafting schools in California, Oregon, Colorado, North Carolina & Chile.
  
  
• Kayaking, Canoeing and White Water Rafting Tour Packages
  Review a wide selection of kayaking canoeing and white water rafting tours worldwide, including dates, location, cost, length of trip and trip highlights. If you like adventure and unique travel experiences, you'll like these vacation packages. Request Your Free Brochure!

Who to Kayak With:

• Find People to Kayak With
  Find people in your area who are interested in kayaking, and make new friends who enjoy spending time on the water as much as you do.
  
  
• Paddling Clubs
  Locate paddling clubs in your area through CanoeKayak.com. Club contact information and most times a website address is included.

Kayaking Articles

• How to Maintain Your Kayak
• How Much Kayaking Costs
• Inflatable Kayaks
• Learn to Paddle a Kayak