| Kayaking is a great sport that combines physical | | | | how to get into the kayak. Here is what you need to |
| activity with the beauty and tranquility of nature. If you | | | | know. |
| would like to get started with this sport, there are a | | | | If you are in shallow water, dip your paddle into the |
| few things you need to know. As with any form of | | | | water and brace it against the side of the kayak to |
| outdoor recreation, learning the basics before you | | | | keep it steady. You can also use the dock edge to |
| begin will make your kayaking adventure much more | | | | steady the boat if you are in deep water. Once the |
| enjoyable. | | | | boat is steady, sit on the edge of the dock with your |
| Tip 1 - Choose the Right Kayak | | | | legs hanging over the side. Line your feet up evenly |
| Choosing the right kayak is the first step on your | | | | with your entry point, and drop the line into the cockpit. |
| adventure. There are many different types out there. | | | | Swing one foot and then the other into the cockpit, |
| The boat that is right for you will depend on your goals | | | | crouch down, and sit. Grab your paddle, adjust your line |
| as a kayak enthusiast. | | | | so it is out of the way, and you are ready to go. |
| First, what type of water will you be using your boat | | | | Getting out of the kayak is basically the same, only |
| on? Calm water and fast-moving water require | | | | backwards. Be sure to keep a good hand on your |
| different boats. Are you going to paddle by yourself, or | | | | paddle so that you do not lose it. |
| will you want someone else with you? How often do | | | | Tip 4 - Paddle Correctly |
| you anticipate using your boat? The more often you | | | | Paddling does involve exercise, but it should not be |
| use it, the more durable you will want the kayak to be. | | | | exhausting. Avoid using a motion that is similar to |
| You can always rent kayaks first to get the feel for | | | | digging into the sand. Instead, lean back in your seat |
| the different types that are available. Once you have | | | | and relax. This not only helps you paddle more |
| chosen the right boat, carefully time your purchase. | | | | efficiently, but it also keeps the boat stable. Hold the |
| Buying in the off-season will help you get an affordable | | | | paddle in both hands using an over-handed hold. Your |
| price. You can also shop online or buy your boat | | | | thumbs should be underneath the bar. Let your torso |
| through the classifieds. Before shopping, however, | | | | make most of the movements. Pull with the arm that is |
| make sure you know what you want. Visit a few | | | | making the downward stroke and push the shaft |
| showrooms to get an idea of what is available. | | | | away with the arm that is making the upward stroke. |
| Tip 2 - Getting the Right Gear | | | | This sounds complicated, but you will get the rhythm |
| Other than the boat itself, what do you need to start | | | | as you practice. |
| kayaking? One of the most important pieces of safety | | | | Tip 5 - Be Prepared |
| equipment that every person in a kayak needs is a | | | | There are some things that you need to have ready in |
| PFD, or Personal Flotation Device. These are high-tech | | | | order to be safe on the water. Make sure that you |
| life vests that will keep you above water if the boat | | | | have an audible safety signal device clipped to your |
| should capsize. Kayaking requires a Type II or Type V | | | | PFD. Also, be sure that you have a spare paddle, |
| PFD. These are lightweight, fairly easy to put on, and | | | | especially if your kayaking trip will be long. Paddles can |
| quite fashionable, not like the life vests you are | | | | get lost in deep water, so having a spare is always a |
| probably picturing. | | | | good idea. This can be a collapsible paddle if you need |
| Typically, the more you pay for a PFD the more | | | | to save room. |
| comfortable it will be. The more expensive models | | | | Before you leave, check the weather and water |
| have softer foam and can be adjusted easier than the | | | | conditions, not just in your current location, but also at |
| cheaper options. If you need to save money, consider | | | | your destination. If a storm is approaching, postpone |
| buying new. | | | | your trip. This is essential if you are a beginner, |
| The other piece of equipment you will need is a kayak | | | | because a sudden storm could mean disaster. |
| paddle. If you can, try out a variety of paddle types. If | | | | A repair kit and first aid kit are also important. Be sure |
| you do not have this luxury, you will probably be happy | | | | that your repair kit includes some duct tape. Your first |
| with an aluminum shaft adjustable paddle with a flat | | | | aid kit must be contained in an airtight, waterproof |
| blade that has blunt or tapered ends as you are | | | | container. Finally, pack a flashlight, even if you do not |
| beginning your kayaking adventure. After you have | | | | intend to be on the water at night. If you get stranded |
| learned more about the sport you may want to | | | | after dark, a flashlight will keep you safe and help you |
| upgrade your paddle, but this paddle will give you the | | | | find your way to shore. |
| flexibility you need to paddle in a variety of situations. | | | | With these tips, you should be as prepared as possible |
| Tip 3 - Getting in and out of the Kayak | | | | to start kayaking. Remember to go with experienced |
| Now that you have a kayak and your basic gear, you | | | | kayak enthusiasts the first few times you go out, as |
| are ready to begin. You take your boat to the river, | | | | they can help you with the problems you will face as |
| don your PFD, and suddenly realize you have no idea | | | | you learn this exciting sport. |