Kayaking

Frequently Asked Questions About Kayaking

• What is kayaking?

  Kayaking is a blend of balance, rhythm, and raw connection with the water—a call for those seeking both adventure and serenity. Each stroke is a small victory against the current, a quiet challenge to the wild forces around you.

  For seasoned kayakers, a day on the water isn’t about reaching a destination; it’s about becoming part of the natural world. Whether gliding over a glassy lake or riding the surge of white-water rapids, kayaking offers both thrill and tranquility. From Norway’s fjords to the turquoise Mediterranean, each place is unique, drawing us in to move in tune with the water, where the journey itself is the reward.
• Is kayaking difficult for beginners?

  For beginners, kayaking may seem a bit intimidating, but it’s very approachable, especially with a few basics in mind.

  Like anything worthwhile, it’s about learning to flow with the water rather than fighting it—a concept that seems simple but feels transformative the moment you experience it.

  Most beginners should start on calm lakes or gentle rivers, where the water is forgiving and the strokes can be practiced without pressure. A good instructor makes all the difference, introducing you to techniques for balance, paddling, and steering. With just a little guidance, novices often find their footing (or rather, their stroke) quickly.

  Yes, there’s a learning curve, but part of the magic lies in discovering how natural it starts to feel. Soon, what once felt wobbly becomes a dance with the current, and every paddle stroke is a step closer to ease and confidence on the water. In time, even the most timid kayaker may find themselves hooked!
• Do you need to be fit to kayak?

  While being fit can help with endurance on longer outings, kayaking is remarkably accessible to a wide range of fitness levels.

  This isn’t a sport that demands an athlete’s physique or relentless power; it’s more about technique and rhythm than raw strength.

  A gentle lake or slow-moving river requires little more than the ability to handle a paddle and a willingness to get a bit wet. In fact, the beauty of kayaking is its versatility: you can make it as relaxed or as intense as you like. Those new to it often find that paddling builds strength and flexibility over time, naturally enhancing fitness with each outing.

  For those who crave a greater challenge—like tackling whitewater rapids or covering long distances—yes, some stamina is beneficial. But for most, kayaking offers the chance to improve fitness while reveling in the peace and thrill of the water. It’s an exercise for both body and mind, where each paddle stroke becomes a meditative rhythm that reminds you: fitness here is built along the way.

• How to kayak properly?

  Start with the basics: a relaxed grip on the paddle, a comfortable, upright posture, and the understanding that the power of each stroke comes from your core, not just your arms.

  To paddle forward, twist your torso and dip one blade of the paddle into the water near your toes, then pull it back smoothly alongside the kayak. Keep your strokes even, alternating sides with each pull, maintaining a steady rhythm that will keep you moving efficiently without tiring too quickly. Avoid “arm paddling” by engaging your core—think of your torso as the engine, letting it do the heavy lifting as you rotate with each stroke.

  Turning is equally about subtlety. If you want to steer right, a gentle backstroke on the right side will shift your direction, and vice versa. For tighter turns, you can use a sweep stroke, arcing the paddle out and around as if drawing a semicircle on the water’s surface. And always remember to look where you want to go; your body will naturally follow.

  The true art of kayaking lies in finding that flow—where the kayak, paddle, and water feel like extensions of each other. With time and practice, you’ll learn to move in harmony with the current.

• Is kayaking a good workout?

  Kayaking is a surprisingly effective workout, offering a blend of cardiovascular and strength training that sneaks up on you in the best way.

  With each stroke, you’re engaging core muscles, shoulders, back, and arms, all working in harmony to propel you forward while maintaining balance on the water. The beauty is that you don’t need to grind through a set number of reps or keep count; the rhythm of paddling becomes its own meditative flow.

  For those seeking a low-impact workout, kayaking is ideal. The water cushions every movement, making it gentle on the joints but tough on the muscles in just the right way. And for those who crave a greater challenge, tackling waves, battling a headwind, or navigating a winding river can add intensity that builds strength and stamina fast.

  Perhaps the best part? You’re surrounded by nature, often so captivated by the scenery that you forget you’re even exercising!