Kayaking fundamentals training (7 days)

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Description

A sound house cannot be built without a solid foundation. In the same way, without basic technique and preparation of the relevant muscles and tendons, neither fast progress in kayaking nor safe paddling is possible.

Gaps in a foundation can be filled endlessly with bricks, mortar and sometimes foam or duct tape, without much benefit. Likewise, gaps in technique and specific physical preparation can be replaced with recklessness, courage, fighting spirit, suppressing fear and relying on good health.

The result is similar: cracks appear in the house and expensive repairs deteriorate; in kayaking, health suffers and unexpected swims occur even in straightforward situations.

Athlete training pays particular attention to the fundamentals. Good athletes continually refine basic techniques in any sport, allowing steady progress and strong results.

In modern kayaking, however, training often delivers everything too quickly: new information arrives before the previous material has been absorbed. As a result, we may know a great deal but be unable to apply it correctly.

Information can inflate the ego, encouraging rapid progression to harder rivers and suppression of fear. Instead of enjoyment, this can lead to injuries, lost time and lost equipment.

Many of us also lead sedentary lives. Some gym exercises can even interfere with efficient movement in a boat. Weak or tight muscles may struggle with unfamiliar loads, often during the first days of a trip.

The course therefore combines river organization and paddling technique with exercise routines that can be practiced at home to prepare for trips and build a strong foundation for enjoyable kayaking without harming your health.

During the course, we discuss and practice:

Paddling and safety techniques:

Signals on the water.
How river flow is structured and how it works.
Choosing an appropriate line on the river and through a rapid.
Different techniques for controlling the boat.
Paddling technique and developing a confident stroke.
Swimming without a boat: different approaches and how to help yourself and your rescuer.
Safety and rescue from shore and from the water, using a throw bag, a tethered swimmer and a boat.

Exercises and techniques that address common problems through regular practice:

Simple, effective exercises for relevant muscles and tendons that can be continued at home.
Approaches to common paddling problems involving the back, shoulders and numb legs.
Breathing techniques to reduce stress, settle yourself and conserve energy while paddling.

The course draws on training methods and information used internationally, including IRF and Rescue 3, exercises and breathing techniques from classical Ashtanga yoga and manual therapy, and experience from organizing dozens of different tours. With regular practice, the information helps you understand kayak-control fundamentals, improve control of your body and boat, act more consciously and effectively on the water, and understand how to respond to emergencies and often avoid creating them.