Kayak with joy
The water sport kayaking has gained popularity and recognition in the recent years. Here is an insight into the adventure event.

Kayaks are light weight, can seat one/two persons and can navigate even in shallow waters.
- Kayaking is a water sport, using modified boats (kayak) to travel over rapids, rivers or seas. The sports originates from the Eskimo boat (kayak) made from fur and wooden frame.
- Kayaks are light weight, can seat one/two persons and can navigate even in shallow waters.
- Modern kayaks have come a long way - more stable, durable and customised for different purposes.
- Kayaking is a great outdoor activity, if introduced in the right way.
- With a large number of rivers, water bodies, geographies and seas, India offers diverse options such as white water kayaking in the rivers originating from the Himalayas, placid water kayaking for long-distance and sojourns into the sea from any coastal city.
- Choose a reputed operator to ensure a safe and joyful first experience.
- While sit-on-top kayaks are the safest, sit-in kayaks are preferred for long distance kayaking and for white water.
- Ability to swim is not a prerequisite for kayaking, as PFD (Personal Flotation Devices) are mandated by reputed operator who sent along trained instructors.
- Never Kayak without a PFD and essential equipment.
- Start with a session in kayaking with a short journey of a few kilometres or joining an introductory session, this will expose you to the basic skills - Entry and exit, paddling strokes, the Kayak, Paddle and using PFD, rescue techniques.
- Once comfortable, you can increase the distance or the grade (for white water), eventually joining an expedition team that undertakes long journeys.
- Carry sunscreen and goggles to protect yourself from UV rays.
- UPF50+, full sleeve attire with a sun protection hat is recommended.
- Carry a water bottle.
- Avoid peak sunny time of the day between 10.30 am and 3.30 pm for kayaking.
- Venture out with a more experienced buddy.
(The author can be contacted at pilotsgayathri@gmail.com)
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