How to Go Paddling

When the stresses of daily life start to get you down, perhaps it's time to hit the water in a canoe or kayak. Before start rowing, you must decide which type of paddling is right for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paddles
• Paddle leashes
• PFD (personal floatation device) or life jackets
• Snacks and drinking water
• Insect repellent and sunscreen
• A canoe or kayak

1. Look into tours. In some areas, kayak and canoe tours are offered by professionals. In New Jersey, for instance, the Hackensack Riverkeeper offers tours of the Meadowlands, especially good for beginners who want to gain confidence.

2. Check in a outdoor or sports store if you've tried paddling and are interested in buying your own equipment. Roto-molded polyethlene kayaks and canoes are inexpensive and easy to maintain. The lightest, but most costly, are made of carbon fiber and Kevlar. For beginners, inexpensive inflatable boats are available for use in pools or small lakes.

3. Choose the shape of a kayak or canoe based on how and where you plan to use it. A longer, thin boat glides easily but doesn't turn as well as a shorter one that is shaped more like a banana on the bottom. A consultant in the store can advise you as to the best shape to choose for your particular area and the body of water you plan to paddle in, whether it is a calm lake or a foaming rapids.

4. Make sure to buy or rent paddles as well as life jackets and floatation devices to outfit yourself and all your boating companions.

Tips & Warnings

• Novices should begin on an "easy" body of water, such as a calm lake, to gain skill in balancing, paddling, steering and generally handling the craft. Ask the outdoor store consultant for information about learning to handle canoes and kayaks. Adult schools often offer such instruction.

Who Can Help:

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