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Essential Kayaking Skills
The core kayaking skills every paddler should build, from sitting and holding the paddle to strokes, launching, self-rescue and judging conditions.
Skills, Safety & Fitness
Kayaking Skills & Technique
7 guides, starting with Essential Kayaking Skills.
How to Launch a Kayak from a Dock
Step-by-step guidance for launching a kayak from fixed and floating docks, with tips on balance, getting in and out, and common mistakes to avoid.
Kayak Lessons for Beginners: What to Expect and Learn
Wondering if you need kayak lessons? See what beginner classes usually cover, how long they take, what to bring and how to choose a good instructor.
Kayak Strokes Explained
Learn the main kayak strokes, including forward, reverse, sweep, draw and brace, with simple technique tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Kayaking for the First Time: A Calm Start on the Water
Planning your first kayak outing? Learn how to choose calm water, what to wear, how to get in, paddle and stay safe, plus what to expect physically.
Paddling for Beginners: Basic Skills to Get Started
A beginner's guide to kayak paddling: sitting, holding the paddle, forward and turning strokes, going straight, getting in and out, and staying safe.
The Proper Way to Hold a Kayak Paddle
How to hold a kayak paddle correctly: blade orientation, hand spacing, grip pressure, feathering and the mistakes that cause sore hands and wasted effort.
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