Introduction
Yes, yes, we know. Canoes are open-top craft rowed across lakes by Native Americans in films, right? What we're calling a canoe is probably a kayak, right? Shut it. There are actually few discernible differences between the boats themselves; as when one is drifting up a certain creek, it's the paddle that counts. Canoeing uses a paddle with a blade at one end, kayaking one with a blade at both ends. Both sports involve you getting very wet. And, if you do them enough, very fit.
The basics
With both kinds of paddle, sit up straight, hold your top hand high and reach your lower hand (and the blade) towards the front of the boat, keeping the blade perpendicular to the canoe as it enters the water. Pull back with your bottom hand and push with the top, then remove the blade from the water slightly behind you. Twist your body to increase power. If kayaking, twist the wrists through 90 degrees and repeat on the other side.
Health benefits
Depending on how hardcore you are, canoeing and kayaking can greatly improve muscle tone and burn calories. Having a quiet paddle on a canal doesn't work you as hard as a white-water slalom descent, however, and according to British Canoe Union statistics burns fewer calories than walking. It's more fun, though.
Equipment, costs and practicalities
Canoes and paddles are available for hire on most major rivers, usually paid for by the day or half-day. For example, it costs £17.50pp for a half-day jaunt up the river Wye from Hay. Solo paddling is discouraged for beginners, and life jackets, which can be hired, are a requirement. Or you can join a club. Many offer free taster sessions before asking you to become a member, usually for a very reasonable fee, and put a small nominal charge on equipment hire. Have a gander at this club finder.
Trendiness rating: 5/10
You really wouldn't want to capsize in most of Britain's canals, so paddling gently up and down it is – which can all feel a bit Duke of Edinburgh. When you're good enough to take on the Olympic course, the cool factor gets considerably higher.
Inside line
Howard Blackman, Canoe England: "The great thing about canoeing is that there really is something for everyone, from taking part in competitive events, like the two Olympic sports of canoe slalom and canoe sprint, to exploring the country's waterways and just spending some time relaxing on the water with family and friends. The best way for people to get involved in the sport is through the new Go Canoeing initiative – an Olympic legacy project aimed at boosting grassroots participation in the sport."
Find out more
British Canoe Union – the leading body for canoeing and kayaking in the UK.
Canoe England – a local division of the BCU.
Canoe Association of Northern Ireland
Canoe NI – guide to canoeing in Northern Ireland.
You may also like
Sailing, rowing.
You might hate
Basketball, badminton.
Over to you
Are you a paddler? Help us build up this resource by sharing tips, videos, links to clubs and anything else that beginners might find useful.
