Discover canoeing and kayaking

Canoeing and kayaking are leisure or competitive water-based activities that are practised in single-seater boats or as a team (up to four seats).~~The two practices are different. Firstly, there is the canoe, of Native American origin, a boat that is propelled and steered by a single paddle with the paddler kneeling or sat on a raised seat. And on the other hand, the kayak, invented by Eskimos, which is propelled and steered by a double paddle, with the paddler sat inside the boat.

Canoeing and kayaking are practised in calm water (reservoir, lakes, canals, tributaries), in white water (rivers, rapids) and in marine environments (seas, estuaries, oceans, etc.).

There are many disciplines: gentle, touring, kayak polo (like basketball in a kayak), sprint (speed), river descent, slalom, marathon, kayak surfing, freestyle, extreme (Class V fast-flowing rapids and rivers).~ 

 

Canoeing and kayaking are water sports. Just like for sailing, you need to be able to swim and wear a buoyancy aid that provides good buoyancy in case you fall into the water (when learning on flat water, it is very rare to fall in, but being able to float thanks to the BA means you can take the time to retrieve the boat and get back on board more easily).

When starting out, it is best to paddle a stable, flat-bottomed boat on a calm body of water. For easy transportation, you can choose an inflatable kayak. For your safety, all inflatable kayaks comply with the ISO 6185-1 standard, which guarantees that they will continue to float so that you can get back to shore if one of the three chambers is punctured.

When learning, go for a kayak rather than a canoe. Kayaking is, in fact, more suitable. The double-bladed paddle will make it easier to steer and to push against the water.  It will enable you to learn the strokes (circle, draw, etc.) on the right and on the left. The sitting position on a seat will be more comfortable. The kayak is the boat of choice used by all paddling schools. ~Then, when the time comes to specialise, canoeing can be considered the more technical discipline. The raised position of the paddler on the water increases instability; the steering of the boat is also more difficult because of the use of a single paddle, on only one side.

From the first few paddle strokes, you will be able to move around on the water. The principle consists of propelling yourself with your paddle, using the resistance of the water, aiming for the place you want to reach with the front of your boat. You will progress quickly and learn how to steer the boat with several consecutive paddle strokes on the same side to correct your course depending on which way you want to go. Over time, you will then steer your boat by gently adjusting the power and movements of your strokes in the water, and finally, with much more experience, simply by edging.

Your playing field on the water is endless and you will always find a location to suit your level and your thirst for discovery and new experiences.~ 

Practised recreationally or as a sport, usually out in the open, it presents many benefits: fresh air, sunshine, peace and quiet... and a full-body workout. ~You will consolidate your physical abilities; strengthen your muscles; develop your coordination, balance, lung capacity and heart health. You will improve your memory and your sense of listening and observation. 

The most used muscles are those of the arms (biceps, triceps), back (lats) and stomach (abdominals) as they play a key role in pulling the paddle. Leg muscles are also called into play for stability.

The first advantage of this discipline is that it is accessible to all, as long as you can swim. Anyone can do it and progress at their own pace. For example, you can start with short trips and, according to how you feel, go further and further, and faster and faster, by improving your paddling technique and physical fitness.

Your playing field on the water is incredibly varied and offers many possibilities; you will always be able to find a canoe or kayak and a location to suit your level and your thirst for discovery and new experiences. 

Adults and children can canoe and kayak so long as they follow the minimum safety rules: being able to swim and wearing a buoyancy aid (or life jacket if under 30 kg). You can easily discover the pleasures of canoeing and kayaking with the family.

Whatever the duration of your trip on the water, always wear a buoyancy aid (some feature a water bladder to help you easily stay hydrated), a waterproof pouch for your phone if necessary, and remember to always check the weather forecast before you get in the water. Headwinds, tide and current can seriously disrupt your trip.

For easier transportation and storage, we recommend using an inflatable kayak and a detachable paddle (that can be attached to the inflatable kayak's bag). Add a buoyancy aid for safety and a dry bag to take your belongings out on the water... and you're all kitted out and ready to go.