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