Kayak with joy

• 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)