Team Building in #Kayaks: #Paddling Your Way to Success

CNY Kayakers End of the Season Banquet Sunday, Nov. 13, 2016 

By Pete Koerner
Team Building is more than just a new catch-phrase in the business world. Success in business means having a winning team; and the difference between a winning team and a losing team is found in how well they work together. There are many different kinds of team building exercises and evolutions available to businesses today, but perhaps the most interesting team building activity of them all is kayaking.

Kayaking offers something to both business leaders and their teams. Unlike many team building activities that can generate resistance among employees, kayaking is a fun and exciting activity that is becoming more popular each day. As one of the big growth industries of this decade, there's a good chance kayaking is something most employees have been wanting to do for a while -- and are chomping at the bit for an opportunity to try it. By setting up a group kayak outing, business owners can give their employees what they've been wanting while accomplishing a valuable business objective.
Without trying to make more of it than it is, a simple kayak excursion -- using tandem kayaks -- will accomplish several team building goals. First, paddling a tandem kayak requires two people to communicate and cooperate in order to make the boat go where the team wants it to go and do what they want it to do. Without stating this as an objective, everyone on a tandem kayak outing will quickly learn to work as a team while accommodating different paddling styles. There simply is no other option.
A second team building objective is met when each two-person team is launched into the fray and must maneuver their boat along with several other boats as they all adapt and learn on the fly. It's not unusual for a large group of tandem kayaks to spend several minutes bouncing off one another as the individual pairs gel as a team and, finally, the group takes shape and starts paddling as a flotilla. Within minutes, a group of individuals has formed working teams that have formed themselves into a group with a common destination and goal.

When people share new and exciting experiences and learn to work together as a unit to overcome a challenge and complete a task, bonds are formed that will transform a group of individuals into a team. Kayaking provides opportunities to overcome challenges in a fun and enjoyable setting while giving employees a great experience and wonderful memories they share with their co-workers -- which further brings individuals together as a group. Most important of all, kayaking, unlike most team building evolutions, is something employees will look forward to rather than dreading and resisting or avoiding. And, as a group, they'll look forward to it time and time again.

Pete Koerner has been a Professional Kayak Instructor and Guide for over 16-years, as well as being a 26-year Fire-Rescue-EMS veteran. Pete, along with his wife, Jennifer, owns and operates Up The Creek Xpeditions in St. Marys, Georgia.

Up The Creek Xpeditions has provided Corporate Team-Building and luxury resort kayaking services to clients such as The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island Plantation, Cabin Bluff and several Fortune 500 companies since 1997 with a Perfect Safety and Customer Service Record. Up The Creek Xpeditions provides the very best in professional kayak guiding and instruction and, because of our Public Safety background, has the highest safety standards in the industry. Visit: http://www.UpTheCreekX.com to find out more.

Or, you can email us at: KayakUTC@Gmail.com.

Also, feel free to contact us by phone at (912) 882-0911. Videos of some of our trips can also be seen on our YouTube channel: UpTheCreekX.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Pete_Koerner/175321

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Building the Half Moon #Kayak

Kayaking Butterfield Lake

By Dale S Nelson
When I was ten years old I had to do a project for my grammar school class. I always wanted to build a boat, so the plans for my first kayak took form in my imagination. There were several criteria that this project had to meet to be successful. The first was cost, as my budget at ten years of age was non-existent. Second it had to be of a modest size as it would be brought to school when finished. The materials had to be something that was not too difficult to find lying around the apartment house where we lived. I found round bottom wooden barrels that varied in size. I cut out a portion of the round barrels following the outer radius to form the ribs, or more precisely, the frames. Using the largest barrel at the center and progressively using the smaller bottoms toward each end, the boat would taper toward each end. To tie these frames together, I would need some kind of long, strong, flexible material. Back in those days, rug cleaners rolled the rugs on long bamboo poles that were later discarded. I found several of these and, with my father's help, we found we could split these poles down the center and fasten them with screws to the barrel bottoms.

This made the horizontal structure we would use to stretch a heavy canvas cover over the entire boat. At each end, we made sharp wedge shaped pieces of old 2"x 12" construction lumber forming a shaped bow and stern piece. The long pieces of bamboo were fastened to these bow and stern blocks. When this was completed, my father invested in some heavy canvas and a liquid that would saturate the canvas making it water-tight. I can still smell the pungent odor of that liquid to this day. We installed narrow pieces of wood on the inside to sit on. Finally, we painted the hull blue with two half moons at bow and stern, christening her the Half Moon. The boat was finished.

I was anxious to launch this marvelous craft, but it was March and the small stream near our house still had some ice on it. No problem. With the great consternation of my Norwegian grandmother, we brought the boat to the river. I got in while my father stabilized her, and off I went. The first thing I noticed while paddling was the Half Moon was very tippy as her hull shape was virtually semi-circular. A fact, I would remember to pay attention to in my later boatbuilding projects. I managed to paddle a short distance down the river and made landfall without tipping over. So, if kayaking interests you, take the plunge and get out on the water.
Dale Nelson lives in Newport, RI and has always been active in the boating community there. He frequently paddles on Narragansett Bay and along the coast.

If you want to learn more about kayaks or you want to purchase a kayak, come to [http://www.oceanstatekayaks.com].
Article written by Dale S. Nelson
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Dale_S_Nelson/1249210
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#Kayaking Wetsuits - For Colder Weather Conditions

By Larry S. Kang

When we think of a kayak, we often think of a small, slender boat similar to a canoe, and for the most part, this description is right. Kayaks are indeed long and slender, but can be easily distinguished from a canoe. A kayak sits you much lower than the canoe, and allows for great leverage in the water. It also calls for maneuvering with a paddle that is double-bladed. A canoe calls for a one-bladed paddle and allows you to sit up a lot higher.

Some prefer the kayak for exploring, due to the ease of maneuvering as compared to canoes or other boats. There are many types of kayaking from sea to ocean to stream to whitewater, and for the best experience paddlers often use a kayaking wetsuit to ensure their safety and comfort.

Kayaking wetsuits are used to keep the kayaker warm. Although the kayak does have a spray deck, water can still get to the kayaker, depending on the roughness of the waters. Therefore, wetsuits are prudently used in waters or air temperatures under about 62 degrees. A good wetsuit will keep you warm whether you are dry or wet; and there are times you may choose get wet intentionally, whether to jump in the water or practice rolling.

Kayaking wetsuits are normally made out of neoprene, and can be thinner than regular wetsuit in certain areas for purposes of mobility. The wetsuit is usually in one or two pieces. With a one piece wetsuit, your legs and core stay warm while your shoulders and arms may be uncovered so they are free to move. There is also the long sleeve version, which is good for colder temperatures. A two piece wetsuit may be better for all those that do not like the feel of a one piece. And, believe it or not, there is even a wetsuit available for the family dog, which can have has his own spot in the kayak.

A simple suggestion when kayaking is to dress according to the temperature of the water, regardless of the air temperature. And, the best way to dress in cold temperatures is by wearing a wetsuit to keep the chill off and protect you against hypothermia. Another option to combat the cold is by wearing a wetsuit, a dry suit, a dry top, or a semi-dry top.

Kayaks are made to move fast in the water when you want them to, and can lend you great fun in a multitude of weather and water conditions. But, you may simply just want one to have some family fun or use it for calming and relaxation purposes, which will be a decision factor as to how you dress. If you don't know how to choose a kayaking wetsuit, do some research online or visit a sporting goods store and talk to a sales representative. There is a lot of info available that can direct you to the best style and guide you to a wetsuit that is priced perfectly for your budget. There are many different brands and styles that you can choose from, so your decision should be mulled over before you make the final decision. You can also take advantage of the Internet, should you know what you want, where many times you will find additional discounts.

Larry Kang is a writer on outdoor recreation topics such as hiking, kayaking, and nature photography. If you would like to learn more about kayaking and wetsuits [http://www.basickayaking101.com], browse instructional websites such as Basic Kayaking 101: Kayaking for Beginners [http://www.basickayaking101.com].

If you find this article useful, feel free to republish it on your website, blog, or newsletter as long as the credits above remain intact and the hyperlinks stay active.

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#Neoprene Gear For Your #Kayaking Needs

Chimney Bluff

By Larry S. Kang
Like swift water, an active mind never stagnates. Nature lovers, explorers and poets have praised the beauty and might of Mother Nature for centuries. When you get closer to nature you get more motivated to preserve it. One way that nature lovers enjoy nature is through water sports. Water sports are quite popular and people often venture into new types of water sports during their vacations.
One of the easiest water sports to take up is kayaking. A kayak is a small boat which has a deck and cockpits to accommodate one to three paddlers. Paddlers have double bladed paddles and they sit facing in the forward direction.
Certain apparel and equipment is highly recommended if you are going kayaking. Apparel for kayaking needs to mainly focus on the comfort and safety of the kayaker. As for equipment, the most obvious piece is the kayak itself.
There are different types of kayaks available in the market - for example, inflatable, sit inside, sit on top, folding, and white water kayaks. Kayak apparel and accessories can be made using various materials but neoprene is one of the most widely used materials. Because of its inherent properties, neoprene maintains flexibility over a wide temperature range. Furthermore, foamed neoprene contains gas cells, which improves its insulating ability when used in kayaking attire and accessories.
We all know that kayaking adventures often take place in the cold, vast seas. Kayaks can mostly withstand extreme cold weather conditions, but the question is whether or not the paddler can. Neoprene provides excellent protection against cold and is not as expensive as certain breathable fabrics. Neoprene can also add reinforcement and protect against abrasive hazards. Neoprene spray skirts are very popular and some kayaks have cockpit covers made of neoprene.
Neoprene cockpit covers help protect your kayaks when it is not being used. When the paddler is in the kayak, the cockpit is generally covered by a spray skirt which is a water proof covering that helps prevent entry of water into the cockpit, thus keeping the boat interior from taking on too much water.
A spray skirt needs to be selected carefully so that it fits the kayak and is comfortable for the paddler as well. Spray skirts should have shoulder straps to hold the torso tube in position and should also be properly sized. You may also want to look for pockets to hold accessories. Neoprene spray skirts are even more widely used for whitewater or surf kayaking.
These spray skirts have adjustable waists which cover the waist of the kayaker and the cockpit, presenting water from breaking waves entering the boat. Neoprene spray skirts have edges made of rubber which grips the edges of the cockpit so that the skirt does not rip off during the kayaking mission. Neoprene spray skirts also provide the kayaker with some insulation against the cold.
Neoprene gloves and paddling gear are also very reliable kayaking accessories. Neoprene kayak roof rack pads wrap around roof bars and provide a padded area for your kayak to rest on which helps prevent it from scratches, scrapes and damage. Neoprene pads have a soft and smooth finish to protect your gear.
Neoprene gloves, socks and wrist covers are also popular among regular kayakers. Neoprene accessories provide excellent comfort and adequate protection to kayakers who engage in long kayaking expeditions in rough seas and oceans.
Learn more about kayaking and neoprene [http://kayaksandkayaking.com/category/neoprene] at Kayaks and Kayaking [http://www.kayaksandkayaking.com].
Note: If you find this article useful, feel free to republish it on your website, blog, or newsletter as long as the credits above remain intact and the hyperlinks stay active.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Larry_S._Kang/339678
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The #Capsize Drill for a Closed Cockpit #Kayak

Lake Eaton Camping Trip

By Matt Stephens

Capsizing and Escaping from a Closed Cockpit Kayak - The Basic and First Procedure
Introduction
When kayaking one of the most crucial things to be able to do is escape from your kayak should you need to, for example if you capsize and are unable to roll back up and there is no one else in the vicinity to rescue you (using a T Rescue, or often called an Eskimo Rescue).
Before setting out on the water the correct equipment should be worn; buoyancy aid (life jacket), helmet, warm clothing - dry, semi dry kagool or clothing to protect from elements (sun, rain, wind), appropriate foot wear. Other optional equipment includes a spray deck (covering the cockpit, stopping water to enter the kayak) in the form of cloth or neoprene.
The Capsize and Escape Drill (in a scenario)
You are out paddling on the river with your local kayak club on mild water (grade 1 - 2) and find you loose balance within some moving water and consequently end upside down. You have not yet learnt to self rescue (screw roll, hand roll) yourself back up.
1) Don't panic - doing so will reduce the amount of time you are able to hold your breath and may also lead to mistakes. Relax...that's the key.
2) When the kayak's settled in the water (ie. not still rolling over) its time for the most important part of the drill, Three loud bangs on the bottom of the kayak. To do this simply lean forwards (moving your head towards the spray deck) and reaching your hands out of the water onto the base of the kayak, in the middle of the cockpit area. From here bang three times.
This allows other kayakers near to you to be aware of your situation and take appropriate action.
This could lead to your being rescued in the form of an Eskimo Rescue.
3) Next, whilst remaining leant forward, move your hands into the same position as the three bangs stage above. This time however, bring your hands further towards the front of the kayak (around level with the front of your cockpit) whilst keeping them out of the water. They should now be positioned to the side of the kayak.
Now whilst holding this position, move your hands so that the palms of your hand are facing you (meaning your little finger is touching the kayak on both sides). Now move both hands down to the rear of the kayak, slowly, whilst keeping them out of the water as if you were directing a lorry reversing into a space.
Once your hands are level with the rear of the cockpit (around level with the back of your seat), turn your palms around so that they now face the front of the kayak. Then move them in a Reciprocating fashion, back and forth from front to back. See diagram below.
See diagram: http://www.eveshampaddlesport.co.uk/images/capsize_hand.jpg
This may seem silly but this allows you to find the nose of a kayak should someone try to Eskimo Rescue you by bringing their kayak in a T Shape to yours.
If this were a Eskimo Rescue you'd now pull yourself from the other kayakers kayak back up.
Lets continue as if there was no-one to rescue you, meaning you now need to escape the kayak and get wetter.
4) Pull the loop/strap/hoop at the front of your cockpit which is attached to your spray deck (the device that stops water entering your kayak).
This releases your deck, and water will start to enter your kayak. Don't panic!
5) Next whilst remaining in your kayak move your hands to behind the rear of your seat, with one hand either side of the kayak.
Push off from here using your hands, and you will naturally pivot out of your kayak in a sort of side ways "U" Shape.
6) You are now swimming in the water, whilst keeping hold of your paddle and kayak swim to the nearest or safest get out point (such as a slipway or fishing platform) and make an egress.
Note: whilst swimming a fellow kayaker may be able to empty your kayak of water and get you back in whilst still remaining on the river. This is called an "X Rescue".
Empty kayak and keep warm, by wrapping up and keeping out of the wind.
Matt Stephens
Evesham Paddlesport, 2007
[http://www.eveshampaddlesport.co.uk]
The Vale of Evesham's Kayak and Canoe Club
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Matt_Stephens/71519
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Drysuits For #Kayaking - Comfort and Protection

Otisco Lake

By Larry S. Kang
Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. Stress, tension and pressure tend to limit everyday fun and enjoyment, but Nature can act as a perfect escapade in such circumstances. Water sports in the vast seas and backwaters are popular with many nowadays, and more people have started developing a passion for it. Kayaking involves paddling a small boat with a covered deck and a cockpit. Kayakers sit in forward facing positions and use a double bladed paddle. Kayaking can be a great adventure and is essential that you have appropriate and good quality gear to protect you while on the water.
A drysuit allows the kayaker to stay warm and dry even while in water. Drysuits, unlike wetsuits, are loose fitting and more comfortable to wear. Drysuits provide thermal insulation and prevent water from entering. They are typically more expensive than wetsuits, and can become quite uncomfortable in hot and warm air. Drysuits can be worn with an undergarment, which can wick out your sweat through its fabric and reduce how much you get soaked from your own perspiration.
It is best to try on different drysuits and choose the one that fits you perfectly so that you can have a safe kayaking expedition. Drysuit accessories include reinforcement patches for the seat and knees and internal suspenders to keep the suit from falling down. Dry socks seal your legs and zippered pockets on the sleeves or legs come in handy to hold small essentials. Some drysuit models can be worn with hoods to protect your head.
The main part of a drysuit can comprise a waterproof shell made of a material such as neoprene. Seals at the wrist and neck made of latex rubber or neoprene prevent water from entering the drysuit to some extent. Latex seals are supple but may need regular replacements because of deterioration due to exposure to the environment. Neoprene seals, though longer lasting, are stiffer and do not seal as well and cannot prevent water entry as efficiently as the latex ones. There are many different types of drysuits to choose from. Membrane drysuits are made from thin materials like vulcanized rubber or nylon and need to be a bit oversize to be flexible as they don't stretch as easily.
These are easy to wear and take off, and are extremely comfortable for long periods of kayaking. Neoprene drysuits are made of buoyant and insulating material and the insulation remains intact even on being torn or punctured. These are more rigid than membrane dry suits and hence less flexible. Hybrid drysuits are a combination of the membrane and neoprene drysuit types, for example, with membrane on the top and neoprene at the waist. The tight lower part makes kicking while swimming easy and loose top eases arm movements.
There are numerous optional arrangements which can be used along with drysuits. Thermal undergarments can be worn with membrane dry suits to provide more insulation during kayaking tours in cold seas and oceans. Drysuits can also come with wrist seals, permanent gloves and also attachment rings. You may need to use your hands often or may also be able to have permanent gloves. You can choose your most convenient one depending on your needs.
Find a store and get your choice of drysuit as they an important role in letting you have a safe, successful and fun kayaking our experience.
If you are interested in learning more about kayaking drysuits [http://basickayaking101.com/gearing-up/kayak-clothing/drysuits-for-kayaking], take a look at informative websites such as Basic Kayaking 101: Kayaking for Beginners [http://www.basickayaking101.com].
Note: If you liked this article, feel free to republish it on your website, e-zine, or newsletter as long as the credits above remain intact and the hyperlinks stay active.
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The Capsize Drill for a Closed Cockpit #Kayak

Waterloo to Seneca Lake

By Matt Stephens
Capsizing and Escaping from a Closed Cockpit Kayak - The Basic and First Procedure
Introduction
When kayaking one of the most crucial things to be able to do is escape from your kayak should you need to, for example if you capsize and are unable to roll back up and there is no one else in the vicinity to rescue you (using a T Rescue, or often called an Eskimo Rescue).
Before setting out on the water the correct equipment should be worn; buoyancy aid (life jacket), helmet, warm clothing - dry, semi dry kagool or clothing to protect from elements (sun, rain, wind), appropriate foot wear. Other optional equipment includes a spray deck (covering the cockpit, stopping water to enter the kayak) in the form of cloth or neoprene.
The Capsize and Escape Drill (in a scenario)
You are out paddling on the river with your local kayak club on mild water (grade 1 - 2) and find you loose balance within some moving water and consequently end upside down. You have not yet learnt to self rescue (screw roll, hand roll) yourself back up.
1) Don't panic - doing so will reduce the amount of time you are able to hold your breath and may also lead to mistakes. Relax...that's the key.
2) When the kayak's settled in the water (ie. not still rolling over) its time for the most important part of the drill, Three loud bangs on the bottom of the kayak. To do this simply lean forwards (moving your head towards the spray deck) and reaching your hands out of the water onto the base of the kayak, in the middle of the cockpit area. From here bang three times.
This allows other kayakers near to you to be aware of your situation and take appropriate action.
This could lead to your being rescued in the form of an Eskimo Rescue.
3) Next, whilst remaining leant forward, move your hands into the same position as the three bangs stage above. This time however, bring your hands further towards the front of the kayak (around level with the front of your cockpit) whilst keeping them out of the water. They should now be positioned to the side of the kayak.
Now whilst holding this position, move your hands so that the palms of your hand are facing you (meaning your little finger is touching the kayak on both sides). Now move both hands down to the rear of the kayak, slowly, whilst keeping them out of the water as if you were directing a lorry reversing into a space.
Once your hands are level with the rear of the cockpit (around level with the back of your seat), turn your palms around so that they now face the front of the kayak. Then move them in a Reciprocating fashion, back and forth from front to back. See diagram below.
See diagram: http://www.eveshampaddlesport.co.uk/images/capsize_hand.jpg
This may seem silly but this allows you to find the nose of a kayak should someone try to Eskimo Rescue you by bringing their kayak in a T Shape to yours.
If this were a Eskimo Rescue you'd now pull yourself from the other kayakers kayak back up.
Lets continue as if there was no-one to rescue you, meaning you now need to escape the kayak and get wetter.
4) Pull the loop/strap/hoop at the front of your cockpit which is attached to your spray deck (the device that stops water entering your kayak).
This releases your deck, and water will start to enter your kayak. Don't panic!
5) Next whilst remaining in your kayak move your hands to behind the rear of your seat, with one hand either side of the kayak.
Push off from here using your hands, and you will naturally pivot out of your kayak in a sort of side ways "U" Shape.
6) You are now swimming in the water, whilst keeping hold of your paddle and kayak swim to the nearest or safest get out point (such as a slipway or fishing platform) and make an egress.
Note: whilst swimming a fellow kayaker may be able to empty your kayak of water and get you back in whilst still remaining on the river. This is called an "X Rescue".
Empty kayak and keep warm, by wrapping up and keeping out of the wind.
Matt Stephens
Evesham Paddlesport, 2007
[http://www.eveshampaddlesport.co.uk]
The Vale of Evesham's Kayak and Canoe Club
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Matt_Stephens/71519
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Capsize-Drill-for-a-Closed-Cockpit-Kayak&id=422220