EXPERT ADVICE

How to kayak with confidence

1. GET LESSONS

Whether you choose to kayak on a river, sea or lake, the basic skills are the same. Take a lesson or join a guided outing and learn how to paddle forward and backward, turn and capsize. Whitewater skills are taught at water courses and on rivers.

2. KNOW THE EBB AND FLOW

British waters are tidal, so it’s essential you understand navigation, tides and currents. Book a coastal navigation and tidal planning course.

3. SECURE THE RIGHT FIT

A well-adjusted kayak is more stable and easier to paddle. Ensure you sit up straight, with your bum fitting snugly against the back of the seat, feet on footpegs and bent knees in firm contact with the sides of the cockpit.

4. GET HANDS ON

How you grasp and use the paddle will make a difference to power and speed through the water. Hold the paddle firmly, with both hands shoulder-width apart in the centre, and elbows bent at 90 degrees.

5. ENGAGE YOUR ABS

Paddle with your whole body, engaging your core, not just your arms (you’ll find out why if you try the opposite).

6. DO THE TWIST

Many kayak paddles are offset (called ‘feathering’), with blades at a 45-degree angle from each other. Feathering reduces wind resistance while paddling, but you must twist the paddle with every stroke.

7. STAY SAFE AND SOUND

Buddy up and stay within sight of each other. Choose calm waters at first and dress for a capsize (just in case). Wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and helmet, and carry a whistle for emergencies, too.