There are many ways to get some exercise whilst exploring the great outdoors, but paddling sports have got to be up there with the best of them. From the tranquility of canoeing to the adrenaline rush of kayaking and the full-body workout of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), there’s a paddling sport to suit all types of person, providing plenty of fun and a fulfilling way to spend your free time.
Those who aren’t well versed in such sports or who have never attended lessons or a training course often shy away from starting because they quite simply don’t know how to, but by taking the plunge rather than continuing to admire from afar, you could soon find yourself a brand new hobby and pastime that is so enjoyable, you’ll wish you’d taken up a little sooner.
If you’re keen to dip your toe into the water but are unsure where to begin then fear not – the experts at outdoor adventure and kayaking company, Outdoorplay have got you covered with everything you need to know to kick off your first foray into the world of paddling sports.
The perfect paddling sport for you
There are numerous different paddling sports available to choose from, so having an idea of which one most takes your fancy is key before you can take to the waters. To figure this one out, you’ll want to have an idea of what each one entails and what you can expect to get out of it, as each offers a different set of benefits and requires varying levels of fitness – although you can certainly use some of them to get into shape and up your cardiovascular resistance in the first place.
Canoeing
A serene sport that can be enjoyed solo or with a partner, canoeing is easily one of the most popular paddle sports out there. From gently flowing rivers to tranquil lakes, there’s no need for rapid momentum so you won’t need to put in a huge amount of elbow grease unless you really want to – just take it at your own pace, and enjoy. As an added bonus, the open design of canoes allows for ample gear storage, making them perfect for leisurely outings or camping trips. Simply spend some time paddling to your destination of choice, immerse yourself in the great outdoors, then paddle back again when you’re done.
Kayaking
If you like the idea of something a little more fast-paced, then kayaking is very similar to canoeing but is ideal for thrill-seekers who crave adventure. Kayaking requires a little more technique, so getting some practice in in the early days is essential, but if you’re up for working up your skill level to prepare for taking on some fast-flowing river rapids then you’ll love this – although kayaking on calmer rivers and peaceful lakes can be just as fulfilling if you’re in the mood for a more relaxed day of sport.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
Requiring balance and strength, SUP provides a full-body workout as you glide gently across the water. It might look easy from afar, but don’t be fooled, because it takes quite some agility to stay on board. Don’t let that put you off, however, as the skill is easily learned simply by taking part and from calm lakes to challenging ocean waves, SUP offers diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
While these three are the most popular paddling sports, they certainly aren’t the only ones. Paddling sports encompass a wide range of activities, including rowing, rafting, and dragon boating, ensuring there’s something for everyone – so don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with whichever most floats your boat.
Essential gear for beginners
Now that you’ve got an idea, you’ll need the right gear. Each paddling sport will require some specialist equipment to get started, but the good news is that it’s fairly minimal. Here’s what you’ll need for each:
Canoeing
A sturdy paddle and a comfortable life jacket are all you’ll really need to get going, although if you’re really serious about your new hobby then you might want to consider splurging on your own luxurious vessel rather than hiring or borrowing from a local club. Wet shoes will also come in handy to ensure secure footing and enhanced comfort during your outings.
Kayaking
In addition to a kayak and paddle, ensure you have a helmet for safety, especially if you’re planning on tackling some challenging whitewater rapids. Spray skirts are also essential to keep water out of your kayak and keep you dry.
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)
A paddle and a board are enough to get you going, along with a leash to stay connected to your board, a buoyancy aid for safety, and wax to maintain a non-slip surface.
Getting the kit right
One thing all of these sports have in common is of course, the need for a paddle, which will serve as your primary tool for navigating the water. Choosing the perfect paddle is a small but significant task, as getting it wrong could negatively impact your enjoyment of your chosen sport and at times, even the level of safety.
Armed with a few simple tips though, it couldn’t be simpler to find the perfect tool for the job. You’ll want to ensure the paddle’s length complements your height and the width of your craft to optimise efficiency and comfort, and choose one made from a material that aligns with your preferences and budget, whether it’s wood for warmth, plastic for durability, alloy for lightness, or carbon fibre for strength.
Safety should always be a top priority when venturing onto the water, so a high-quality life jacket is also essential for all paddle sports for maximum peace of mind. You’ll want one that fits snugly yet comfortably. It will, however, need to allow unrestricted movements whilst protecting you should you find yourself in the water, so getting the balance right is key. Too loose or tight, and you could be putting yourself at risk, so don’t neglect this step and be sure to try a few on before you buy.
You’ll also need to consider the buoyancy rating of the life jacket based on your weight and the type of waters you’ll be paddling in.
Tips for beginners
As a beginner, mastering basic skills and safety protocols is essential for a successful paddling experience, so be prepared to invest some time in learning the basic paddling strokes required to control your vessel of choice, as well as balance techniques – and ensure you’re well versed in the relevant safety procedures before taking to the water.
Whenever you’re planning on heading out for a paddle, it’s important to check the weather conditions first. Educating yourself on the current patterns and any potential hazards of your chosen body of water for the day is also key to keep risk to a minimum and ensure you can enjoy the experience to the full.
The bottom line
Armed with the right gear, a good idea of what you’re doing, and some crucial safety precautions, you’ll soon be ready to embark on your paddling journey with confidence. Offering a raft of benefits ranging from fitness and adventure to sheer relaxation, paddling sports offer myriad opportunities to explore the great outdoors in a new and fulfilling way. So, grab your paddle and make 2024 the year you finally fulfill your long-held desire to learn a new water-based sport.
