The Ultimate Guide to Kayaking

What is kayaking? Most people don’t understand what Kayaking is. Some do confuse it with canoeing, which is different, although related in some ways. They are both performed on water, involve paddling but have different designs and operations. It is essential to understand the two to enable you to choose the best. This article will concentrate on giving details about kayaking. It will give a brief history of the sport, its difference from canoeing, and any other information you may need to know. Before we go further into details, let’s define it in detail.

What is Kayaking?

Kayaking is a physical activity which you can take as a sport or a profession. You only need to have the kayaking boat, the double-bladed boar, and the venue where you want to perform the exercise. You will paddle the boat using the boar as you make movements from one end to another. Kayaking is a low impact sport, but its benefits are many. First, it improves strength in your body. It does this to the core, hips, chest, hands, legs, and other body parts. The sport also improves your mental health, makes you lose weight, among other benefits.

You can go kayaking on the sea, lakes, rivers, oceans, and even dams. You have to be careful as a beginner, especially in risky rivers with high tides and waves. You also have to protect yourself from water, animals, and other dangers. It is a sport performed by everyone, regardless of their age and gender, and can supplement other activities, including fishing. One more thing, you can do kayaking as a professional game. It has a slot in the Olympic Games.

What’s the History of Kayaking?

Although facts may differ, it’s assumed that Kayaking was first started in North America by the Inuit and Aleut tribes. The first real kayaks were made from animal skins and driftwood, and it was their mode of transport when they went fishing in the deep waters. The name “Kayak” translates to a hunter boat. The kayaking then got accepted to other areas around the world. The first kayaking sport was done on icy waters in the 1800s by the Germans and the French nationals. It then grew to be part of the Berlin games in 1936, before evolving to the Olympics. 

What’s the difference between Kayaking and Canoeing?

There is a slight difference between a canoe and a kayak. Most people find it challenging to make a difference. It is essential to know the differences to avoid getting into the wrong sport or buying the wrong equipment.

A kayak comprises a closed vessel with a middle space where you sit and stretch the legs. On the other hand, a canoe is an open vessel in which you can kneel, sit or stand. It’s not covered and has a somehow pointed bow. Kayak paddles have blades at both ends and are usually long. You can use both blades to maneuver from point A to B. the Canoe paddles are shorter with a single blade at the end. Other differences include its use since they differ in design.

What do you need for Kayaking?

As a beginner, you may want to have a full pack before beginning your kayaking activities. Like other sports, you need the necessary tools that will make the sport successful and exciting. You will require a kayak and its paddle. You will also need a life jacket for your safety and a helmet to protect your head. Other necessary items include safety goggles, water-resistant clothing, protective footwear, and a waterproof bag to keep your valuables. 

How to Start Kayaking

Before embarking on the kayaking adventure, you first need to know how to get safely into the water. Here are some steps to launch your boat:

• Put your kayak boat on the water, just at the edge to avoid it drifting away. Control it as you step in.
• Balance your weight in the boat when getting in and use the paddle to position yourself. Ensure you sit comfortably before taking the next step.
• Launch the boat by pushing yourself against the shore. Do not go deep into the water until it is safe to do so.
• Use the paddling techniques to master the sport more. You can practice the forward sweep stroke, enabling you to move forward, and the Reverse sweep stroke pushes you back. You can also teach yourself how to turn and perform other stunts in the water. 

Types of Kayaking

There are at least five types of kayaking in practice worldwide. These include:

• Recreational Kayaking: this kayaking is done on protected water bodies where you rent the kayak and the equipment to enjoy yourself. The boat is usually more extensive and more stable, and it is mostly done for fun.
• Sports Kayaking: This is a bit extreme form of kayaking done on wavy or rapid water. Here, you compete with other kayakers. There are different sports types, including the recreational sport kayaking, freestyle, river racing, slalom, and Olympic kayaking. Some of these competitions have hefty prizes for the winners.
• Surf Kayaking: This sport is only for the pro and involves kayaking on wild waters. You need special training to compete with the experts.
• White-Water Kayaking: This kayaking is also dangerous since it’s done on rapid water, including rivers, creeks, and streams. You can choose river running, creeking, playboating, squirt boating, and much more. 
• Sea Kayaking: This kayaking type is done on large water bodies, including oceans. Its kayaks are slightly different and consist of two sealed bulkheads. One is placed behind the seating area, with the other for the feet to increase comfortability. It’s best for long rides and when going camping.
• Fishing kayaking: This type of kayaking is built differently to enable the operator to stand. It is mostly used in large water bodies by the fishermen.

There are two types of Kayak boats you can choose from. These include the sit-on-tops and the Sit-in Kayaks. To choose the best kayak for your sport, you must consider its hull, weight, category, length, width, and other factors. You also have to wear the correct clothing to protect your body against harmful animals and objects in the water. It only takes a little time, and you become the pro in the game.