Trying kayaking for the first time can be intimidating. In reality, all sports always are when they are new to you. However, just because you need to learn the basics and fail a few times before succeeding doesn’t mean that you don’t give it a try.
We would say that facing the challenge is half the fun.
You do need to make sure that you are following all the safety protocols to avoid any injuries. So, before pushing off that shoreline on NW Ontario beach, take a look at the following kayaking tips:
1. Rent a Kayak
Since you will be trying kayaking for the first time, it’s better to rent the vessel or borrow it from a friend rather than buy one. Right now, you don’t know whether you will love this water sports or not. So, better not invest.
2. Know River Language
Did you know that kayakers have their sign language? The rapids are pretty noisy, and it can be a little challenging to communicate with other people if you are kayaking in a group. So, why not brush on the hand signals so that you can learn more when kayaking in a group.
3. Dress According to the Water
A wetsuit or a swimsuit is the best choice for kayaking. Don’t forget to wear your helmet, shoulder and knee pads, and a life jacket.
4. Know the Padding Styles
There are four padding styles, and they are similar to driving a car. These include the forward stroke, the forward and reverse stroke, the reverse stroke, and the break.
The first two strokes use the front end of the paddles to move forward. The reverse stroke allows you to back up by turning your paddles when you see high water approaching, and the last stroke is simply putting the paddles backward into the water without any strokes. Don’t rotate your body with the first three strokes.
5. Bring a Roll of Duct Tape With You
When it comes to kayaking, duct tape offers you a way out of every problem.
- Is the shaft broken and has splinters sticking out? Duct tape it!
- Is the gear in your kayak rolling around? Secure it with duct tape!
- Is something broken on the kayak that needs a little patchwork? Duct tape it!
Kayaking requires you to maintain a form when sitting in the vessel. Make sure that your back is straight and supported by the kayak. Position the balls of your feet where the foot guides are. Some kayaks use pegs instead. Point your toes outward and the heels in the kayak. Your knees must have an outward and inward bend so that your legs can remain in contact with your thigh braces and apply pressure on them.
These are just some kayaking tips that we could think of immediately. Stay tuned to learn more to make your kayaking experience more fun. If you do end up buying a kayak, make sure to invest in floating docks. Nor Col EZ Dock offers floating docks for boats that are available in different designs. To buy plastic docks in NW Ontario, visit their website or call (800) 654-8168.
