#Kayaking Tips and Basics - All You Need to Know About Intense Kayaking

By Ken Fink

There is no all-embracing definition of what is known as intense kayaking. This is because every definition will be on the experiences experienced by every kayaker. However, a closer look at intense kayaking will reveal that intense kayaking is generally considered by those kayakers who find a lot of fun kayaking is bustling waters. Keep in mind that intense kayaking will also warrant the need of very special kayaking skills.

You may want to get yourself involved in intense kayaking. There is no problem is this, provided you are confident and able to paddle through fast-moving water. Ahead of getting into this, it is necessary that you involve yourself in some learning about kayaking in fast-moving waters. As soon as you are through with this, you should continue by getting some inspiration on some basic kayaking methods and some precautionary measures involved in kayaking in fast-moving waters. Finally, you should get an experienced kayaker accompany you as you begin kayaking.

Introducing Yourself to Intense Kayaking

A lot of categorization about paddling exists in relation to intense kayaking equipments. One of such techniques involved is creeking. This technique will call for expert skills in kayaking along very complicated waters which is normally evaluated as meant for professionals. The slopes creeking will normally go down when kayaking is not less than 19 meters for each kilometer and this is more often than not done over waters which are very slender. Kayaking in this case will need a special type of boat know as a creek boat.

When kayaking is done on a competitive basis, it is usually known as slalom kayaking and this is commonly done in the Olympic Games. This will normally call for kayaking through fast-moving waters and the fastest kayaker is declared ultimate winner. Ahead of thinking about this type of event, you must know that your kayaking course will include complex bends through difficult waters. In such a case, the rates at which points are calculated become more complex. For this reason, you can successfully go though this type of kayaking only if you are an expert.

What Other Forms Of Categorizing Intense Kayaking Are There?

There are so many forms of describing an intense kayaking. No matter the term used, it should be borne in mind that extreme kayaking is meant for those who can be very flexible or acrobatic with the use of paddles. Remember that very flexible paddlers will hardy think of moving over long distances. Instead, they will employ a mode of paddling that includes several exercises as they combat with the fast-moving and strong currents. These exercises will normally call for an assortment of spins and turn over and this will also call for the use of a special type of kayaking boat.

A last categorization is known as squirt kayaking. This is a form of kayaking that has been practiced for long. The type pf kayak involved is usually not as common as that used in a freestyle kayak. The type of kayak used here is produced with the mass, range and other features of the paddlers. Those involved in squirt kayaking are normally envied for their competence to be able to go under water and remain there for a few seconds before coming afloat.

What Are The Necessities Of Kayaking In Fast-Moving Water?

Ahead of involving yourself in fast-moving water, you must be aware that it will serve you no good if you do not learn how to disconnect the movements of your upper limbs from those of your lowers limbs. This should be a very complex thing to become skilled at, but there is nothing complex that cannot be studied. The force exerted by your upper limbs will be greatly exerted if you revolve your upper body from your hips. While your hands will be kept secure in front of you, your stomach and back muscles will be greatly put into use.

You should also know that the sharp edges of your paddle should be submerged in water as much as possible if you intend maintaining complete control. Remember that for this to be more effective, your movements must be rapid. You should not forget to go through some kayaking lessons on fast-moving waters. Remember that as your skills become great, so too will your preferences for kayaking in fast-moving waters.

About the Author

Learn more about packing for a kayaking trip as well as learning more about technical aspect of towing a kayak when you visit http://www.kayakingbeginner.com, the most popular site on beginner kayaking.

#Kayaking Apparel

By Marc Fredmen

Kayaking is a great outdoor activity wherein the paddler may remain water bound for long hours at a stretch. Hence, it is essential that the paddler is completely at ease and has no discomfort. Wearing the right clothes is very important for the paddler to remain safe and comfortable while kayaking.

Kayaking Shorts

Most paddlers would agree that a pair of shorts is the most comfortable and convenient alternative, especially when paddling for long hours. Thus, it is recommended to use shorts for kayaking. There are various patterns and styles of shorts that paddlers can choose from, depending upon their preferences and kayaking conditions.

Usually neoprene shorts are most popular among paddlers as they provide the right combination of comfort and style. It is recommended to opt for high-back shorts to get greater protection while sitting in the kayak. These shorts have a stretch that ensures great comfort to the paddler and does not restrict his movements. Paddlers are also recommended to opt for shorts that improve the friction between the paddler and the kayak.

Another option of kayaking shorts is those made of quick drying material. It is a good idea to opt for these shorts while going for kayaking on strong rapids. Remember, do not opt for very tight-fitting shorts. A good pair of shorts teemed with a loose-fit t-shirt is the ideal dress code for a kayaking session.

3/4 Pants

A ¾ pant is also a good piece of apparel as it protects even the shins of the paddler while kayaking. Most ¾ pants available already have bent knees, high back and low front which suits the sitting posture of the paddler.

Kayaking Dry Suits

Although kayaking shorts are perfect for summer, kayaking in winter requires a proper drysuit. These drysuits prevent the paddler from getting exposed to the cold water and helps in preventing hypothermia. Drysuits too are made of neoprene along with nylon that lends strength to it.

It is recommended that paddlers opt for drysuits that have an extra padding to the seat and the knees for extra protection.

Usually kayakers use drysuits during whitewater kayaking in winters. It is mainly during kayaking on gushing rapids that there is a chance that paddlers may get wet. Also, whitewater kayaking is relatively difficult and on strong rapids there is every chance of the kayak getting capsized. In such events, a kayaking drysuit is very important as it would protect the paddler from the initial shock of the cold water and maintain the body temperature.

Dry Tops

For those who do not want the entire drysuit can opt for dry tops. These are waist-length jackets with hoods that protect only the upper portion of the body from getting wet. Usually these tops consist of polyester mesh lining that makes the top water resistant. These tops can also be secured at the waist and have a cord-lock feature that make the top body hugging and keep away all moisture.

Choose the right kind of apparel for the right season to enjoy the thrills of kayaking to the fullest.

About the Author
The author Marc Fredmen is a kayaking expert and provides extensive guidance on various kayaking aspects. Check out the essentials of a kayaking kit for every trip.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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