Aim
The River Kayak Skills Introduction to Kayaking course is designed to introduce the novice or relatively inexperienced kayaker to paddling. The emphasis is on mastering the fundamentals of kayaking, along with a strong grounding in water safety and safe kayaking practices. Participants may paddle either a river kayak or sea kayak for this course.

Upon Successful Completion
The Beginner River Kayak Skills is certified to:

Teach the following courses:
Not Applicable

Assist and/or Apprentice (Mentorship) on the following courses:
Not Applicable

Prerequisites
None

Course Length
Eight (8) hours

Class Ratio
1 Instructor : 6 Participants

Location
Enclosed and sheltered with easy landing options immediately present.
This course may be conducted in a pool.

Conditions
Wind calm (<8 knots) Sea state calm to rippled.

Program Overview
SAFETY

• Wet Exit
• Retrieving a swamped kayak
• Eskimo (Bow) Rescue
• T-Rescue
• Rafting

THEORY

• Boat Design
• Boat Outfitting
• Clothing
• Safety Equipment
• Paddles
• Injury Prevention
• Equipment Care & Selection
• Kayaking Resources

SKILLS

• Lifting and Carrying a kayak
• Entering and Exiting the kayak
• Forward and Reverse strokes
• Forward and Reverse sweep strokes
• Draw Stroke
• Balancing
• Edging
• Straight Line
• Low Brace Turn