Calm water kayaking involves using kayaks in still waters, with different styles of kayaks available. It is a relaxing activity that can be done in lakes, rivers, or the ocean. It is a great way to enjoy the scenery and wildlife, but beginners should take lessons to avoid injury.
Calm water kayaking involves traveling in waters that lack rapids or waves. Kayaks are similar in shape to canoes, with narrow pointed ends and wider in-between areas where passengers sit. Some kayaks are built so that the paddler can sit on top of the kayak to paddle the craft. Other kayaks are cockpit style, where the kayaker sits inside on a seat on the bottom of the kayak. Also, in this style of kayak, the kayaker is surrounded by a splash guard which provides a seal between the kayaker’s torso and the kayak itself. While generally smaller than canoes, kayaks come in a variety of sizes with room for one or more passengers. Kayakers also use paddles to propel them through the water, but unlike canoe paddles, kayak paddles generally have blades on both ends of the pole.
Kayaks are used in lakes, rivers and the open ocean. Whitewater kayaking involves navigating through rapid water, rocks, and other obstacles. Calm water kayaking, however, is generally a more relaxing activity. It can be done in the ocean; depending on weather conditions and proximity to shore. Calm water kayaking on lakes or large ponds is where beginning paddlers usually learn the various strokes of paddling to become proficient at maneuvering their kayaks.
Calm water kayaking is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty and observe the wildlife of an area. You can go on camping-kayak excursions alone, with your family or in guided tour groups. Very young children can enjoy calm water kayaking with their parents if the parents have been properly trained and have had sufficient experience with kayaking. Even when kayaking in calm water, you should be sure that children are wearing appropriate life jackets or personal flotation devices and properly strapped on. For safety reasons, everyone aboard these vessels should always wear life jackets.
Although paddling a kayak sounds simple, it’s best to take lessons if you’re a beginner. The most common injury for paddlers is a dislocated shoulder due to improper positioning of the arms while paddling. It is better to learn proper paddling techniques than to injure yourself and have to “unlearn” the wrong way to paddle. Kayaking can be a fun and relaxing way to build upper body strength as you can feel the correct forward stroke in your back, core and arms.
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