KAYAK ROLLING LEVEL 1

Developing a roll is a highly sought after skill for most kayakers. Being able to handle capsizes quickly and effectively can open a whole new world of possibilities, allowing you to paddle in rough or remote environments more confidently. 

 

This beginning kayak rolling course is roughly three hours and is designed to by used with either whitewater or touring kayaks closed-deck designs. Students will learn the fundamental components of the roll and improve their bracing skills.  

 

After some warm up paddling and stretching, we will begin. Participants will be shown:
 

• Proper boat fit and adjustment

• Proper hip snap technique

• Learning the bow rescue

• Techniques for effectively rolling

• Proper body positioning

• Proper head placement

• Mechanics of a roll

 

As students progress through these steps, we will begin practicing the entire sequence.  Rolling is a skill that can be acquired relatively quickly - or take several weeks or months, depending on how often a student practices.  Our instructors will give you tips to continue your on-water skills after the course.  Some students may want to continue on to the intermediate rolling course, or take another session to continue learning with an instructor.  Either way, be patient and know that learning happens at a variety of paces.  Don't put too much pressure on yourself, or frustration will set in.  Just keep trying, keep your head down, and one day you will succeed.
 

IMPORTANT NOTE: Participants should be comfortable spending time with their head underwater and know how to perform a proper wet exit.  Knowledge of bracing is very helpful.  This should not be your first kayak lesson; we suggest our Safety and Rescue skills course as a pre-requisite.