Starter Kayak Session, Individuals, Families & Groups (aged 8+)

NOTE: All participants must be over 8 years old and able to swim 30 metres.

These sessions are for those new to kayaking and interested in starting the sport of flat water kayak racing with Ealing Canoe Club.

We will introduce you to the following skills needed to enjoy paddling safely on flat water.

• Forward paddling (The correct way)
• Stopping
• Backwards paddling
• Sweep stroke (For turning)
• Draw Stroke (For moving your boat sideways)
• Self Rescue

We will start you in a stable beginner kayaks and as your skills improve our instructors will assess when you are ready to progress to a racing kayak and to club membership and our regular club group sessions. Gaining the skills needed to start using a racing kayak normally takes about 3 or 4 starter sessions. We will be adding more starter sessions soon.

All our instructors and coaches are volunteers with many years of flat water kayaking and racing experience and enjoy helping and supporting beginners to enjoy and progress in the sport.

WHAT TO WEAR FOR KAYKING:Always bring a change of clothes and towel as you will get wet. We have changing facilities on-site in our club house.Suitable Clothing: Synthetic fabrics such as workout or gym gear are best as they don't absorb much water and therefore don't get much heavier when wet.Footwear: Water/beach shoes are best as thinner soles allow better contact with the kayak's footrests which greatly helps in controlling the kayak. Trainers are not recommended as they have thicker soles and are bulkier. Sandals, Crocs and loose fitting shoes are NOT suitable.Be prepared for the weather conditions. If it is sunny, ensure you have a hat and sun screen. If it is cold, windy or raining it's advisable to wear more layers and/or a thin waterproof jacket.For more information about our club and the sport, please visit our website via the link below:

Ealing Canoe Club Website