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What is Kayaking?
Kayaking has become one of the fastest growing adventure sports in the country. Kayaking is an incredibly diverse sport that appeals to individuals with a wide range of interests and abilities.
The three main types of kayaking are recreational paddling, touring/sea kayaking and whitewater kayaking.
Recreational Kayaking is ideal for individuals looking for a low impact recreational experience that can be done on ponds, lakes and slow moving rivers.
Touring/Sea Kayaking is an activity for individuals that live near an ocean or a larger body of water. Touring boats are longer, faster and designed to travel greater distances.
Whitewater Kayaking is a great activity for individuals interested in paddling rivers. Whitewater paddling offers a tremendous variety of recreational experiences ranging from scenic paddles to raging whitewater. Most whitewater paddlers fall in the middle, kayaking for a mixture of scenery, exercise, and adventure. The latest revolution in whitewater kayaking is the world of play boating. With play parks popping up all over the country paddlers have the option to drive to a surf wave hop in the river and get a work out with out the hassles of driving shuttle or finding paddling partners.
Kayaking Myths:
"Kayaking is an extreme sport." Kayaking, like all adventure sports, has inherent risks. However with education and instruction you can learn to be safe and proficient on the water. The majority of paddlers choose the lower impact recreational levels of the sport.
"Kayaking is only for young people." Kayaking can be a low impact sport requiring less physical strength than most other outdoor sports, such as biking, hiking or skiing.
"Kayaking is too expensive." Most people can get outfitted in a complete set up head to toe somewhere between $799 and $1600. Price variations are due to the type of clothing required for your region and the type of kayak you are purchasing. Used equipment is also available.
How do i get Started?
Step 1: Kayaking requires a basic foundation of skills in order to be safe and proficient. By taking an introductory workshop you can expedite your learning curve and acquire information and skills that might otherwise takes months even years to attain.
Step 2: Decide what type of kayaking appeals to your goals and interests.
Be sure to talk with your instructors, they are a knowledgeable resource that can help you identify the proper type of kayaking that is right for you.
Step 3: Start acquiring the necessary clothing and equipment.
It is our Philosophy at CKS that beginner kayakers should first start by purchasing their personal gear and clothing. After you have purchased your clothing and essential equipment, it is time to decide which kayak is ideal for you. It is recommended to try before you buy. At CKS we offer kayak rentals, so you can make sure that your kayak is the right fit. The demo fee may also be deductible from your purchase (check with a sales associate for more info). We suggest buying a "modern" kayak. Technology over the last few years has really changed the direction of the sport. Today's kayaks are more comfortable, more stable, and much easier to learn in.
Step 4: Join a local paddle club!
Most communities located near a large body of water or runnable river have a canoe or kayak club. Paddle clubs are a great avenue to network with other paddlers and get information on local runs and paddling locations. Summit Kayak's Paddle Club has weekly paddling get-togethers for people of all abilities.
Step 5: Take more classes!
Continuing education will only enhance your paddling experience. Some recommended classes are breakthrough workshops, play boating clinics, and river rescue workshops.
Step 6: Be smart when you are picking you paddling partners. Choose paddlers that are either similar in ability or willing to paddle at your level and pace.
Remember, it's better to be safe when kayaking, so if you're not ready for a certain run, don't push yourself. Take a couple more classes, or go with someone that's knowledgeable about that run, and who is willing to guide you through it.
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