Essentials of kayak touring
The course is certified by the American Canoe Association and given by certified instructors who will teach you the basics of coastal kayaking so that you can go further.We run complete workshops all year long as we have a mild climate.You might also want to improve specific skills before you take the examination.The main skills you will learn are the following:
- Module 1 – Getting startedWarm-up and stretchingHow to pick up and carry a kayak safelyCar topping: loading and unloading, racks, strapsLaunching and landingBoarding, three points of contact, weight kept low, etc.Posture, safety, comfort, effectiveness, rocking, balanceSpray skirtsWater comfort and confidence: wet exits – capsize & effectively exitWet exits in two ways: (1) utilizing the spray skirt grab loop and (2) releasing the skirt off the hipSelf-rescueHow to empty a kayakBasic terminologyTypes of strokes (covered in this course): power, turningStroke components: catch, propulsion, recovery (CPR), control, correctionSafe and effective body usage
- Module 2 – StrokesForwardBack (stopping)DrawSculling drawSweep (including stern draw)Reverse sweepStern rudderLow braceLow brace turn
- Module 3 – RescueRescue sequence: reach, throw, row, go (RETHROG)Rescue priorities: people, boats, gearDemonstrate/participate: T-rescueDeep-water re-entries, assisted and solo, with sling, including scoop and paddle float rescuesBoat assisted rescue, assisting a tired swimmer (pushing or pulling to shore)Towing or bulldozing a capsized boat
- Module 4 – ManoeuvresForwardBackDrawSweepsLow Brace
- Module 5 – theoretical sessionPaddling EnvironmentPersonal PreparationEquipmentSafety and RescueTrip preparation
- Coastal kayaking trip10km paddling tripDebriefing
