Spending time outdoors is not only beneficial for your physical health, but your mental and overall well-being as well. Fortunately, there are various activities that you can try doing outdoors such as hiking, trekking, or even kayaking. This article tackles some of the things that you need to know if you are keen on kayaking.
Consider Getting a Lesson
One of the first things that you need to do for you to enjoy kayaking is to consider getting a lesson particularly if you don’t have any experience in getting into a kayak. Rest assured that as soon as you learn the kayak basics, there are many things that you can do with a paddleboat, such as fishing for instance. In this case, you may want to explore the best fish finder for kayak if you intend to go on kayak fishing. Otherwise, you may want to master first your paddling skills if you intend to go white water rafting which is considered an extreme sport. The important thing is that you get to understand the basics of kayaking.
Choose the Right Boat
Another thing that you need to consider before you go kayaking is choosing the right boat. When it comes to kayaking, there are several types of boats for you to choose from such as long narrow racing boats as well as tiny squat freestyle playboats. In this case, you also need to consider the water where you intend to kayak. For instance, if you will most likely be paddling on a lake, then a flatwater boat will suit your best. On the other hand, sit-on-top kayaks are ideal for beginners because of the great stability that they provide.
Hold the Paddle Properly
You should also know how to hold the paddle. Usually, this will also be taught during kayaking lessons but it still makes sense to practice your grip, as well as your movement. In this case, make sure to hold your paddle with both of your hands just a bit over shoulder-distance apart. You may notice that the paddle blade is a bit curved. Make sure that the concave part is facing you so that it will be able to sweep through the water.
Familiarize Yourself with Basic Rescue Protocols
Finally, make sure that you are familiar with the basic rescue protocols for your safety, as well as for the safety of others kayaking with you. You may not encounter capsizing the first time around, particularly if the water is quite calm, but make sure that you are always prepared. Thus, it is a good idea to go through a capsize drill with your kayak instructor during your lessons.
Before you go kayaking, you can consider getting lessons first to ensure that you understand the basics of what you are getting yourself into. You should also exert the extra effort to get the right boat and practice holding the paddle properly. Make sure that you are also familiar with the basic rescue protocols. All these are geared towards ensuring that you will enjoy spending time on your kayak rather than otherwise.