Learn to Paddle and Enjoy Canoes and Kayaks
By George Sayour, About.com Guide to Paddling
There certainly is a lot to the sports known collectively as paddling. The sheer volume of boat and gear options is more than enough to confuse the uninitiated. This page will give you a taste of the different flavors of paddling canoes and kayaks in an effort to make your breaking in period just a little bit easier.
About Paddling
The sport of paddling has a long and varied history and encompasses many different genres. For as long as there has been civilizations, people have paddled canoes and kayaks. Each time we paddle we tap into this heritage. This section will examine the different aspects of the sport of paddling.
- An Explanation of the Sport of Paddling
- An Illustrated History of the Sport of Paddling
- The Top 10 Reasons to Paddle
- Everything About Olympic Canoe/Kayak
- The Whitewater Classification System Explained
- Discover Paddling Festivals
Beginning Tips and Skills
Paddling isn't always easy to figure out. It is true that anyone can get into a canoe or kayak and begin to paddle. That doesn't mean they are doing it the right or most efficient way. This section will focus on all of those little things that paddlers just take for granted but are often overlooked by beginners.
- Getting Started in Paddling
- The Top 5 Paddling Tips
- 5 Goals for Every Paddler
- The Anatomy of a Paddle Stroke
About Canoe and Kayak Gear
It really is amazing how much canoe and kayak gear has certainly improved over the last ten years. Boats are smaller, faster, and stronger and most of the equipment is more durable while at the same time weighing less. Here you will find a guide to the equipment and gear requirements of each sport.
- How To Buy a Kayak Paddle
- Top 5 Tips for Storing Your Canoe or Kayak Gear
- Olympic Canoe/Kayak Gear and Competition
Paddling Destinations
While it is true that you will find people paddling canoes and kayaks anywhere there is water, there are some areas that are more conducive to these types of activities. Here you will find some paddling "hot spots" as well as some great places to take lessons and learn how to canoe, kayak, and raft.
