STICK YOUR OAR IN

Learn to paddle a kayak with this expert advice

1. PADDLING 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 forwards, backwards, turn and capsize. Whitewater skills are taught at manmade water courses and on the river.

2. 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. THE RIGHT FIT

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

4. HANDS ON

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

5. BODY POWER

Paddle with your whole body, engaging your core and not just your arms.

6. DO THE TWIST

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

7. SAFE AND SOUND

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