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Is Kayaking Hard? What you need to know + how to make it happen

Posted on August 22, 2023November 7, 2024 By ~Brandi~ 16 Comments on Is Kayaking Hard? What you need to know + how to make it happen
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Updated: April 10, 2024

Is kayaking hard?

It doesn’t have to be. Kayaking is an easy and enjoyable sport with options to make it more athletic and challenging if you choose. There are a few factors that can impact your kayaking challenge level. Let’s explore those factors…

is kayaking hard

Here are some factors to consider when planning your kayaking adventure…

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Table of Contents

  • Is Kayaking Hard on a Pond?
  • Is Kayaking Hard on a Lake?
  • Is Kayaking Hard on a River?
    • Float the Illinois in Arkansas
    • Float the Illinois in Oklahoma
  • Kayaking Safety
    • 1000 Hours Outside Challenge
  • Benefits of Kayaking
  • Kayaking Equipment
  • Conclusion
    • Floating the Buffalo River

Kayaking, a popular water sport that combines physical activity with a deep connection to nature, has captured the hearts of many adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to raging rivers and even coastal waters, kayaking offers a diverse range of experiences.


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Is Kayaking Hard on a Pond?

Is kayaking hard on a pond? Not at all! In fact, a pond is the easiest starting place when learning to kayak. There are typically the least amount of disruptions to the water on a pond.

For beginners, kayaking can present a learning curve. Balancing and coordinating paddle strokes while navigating water can initially be intimidating. A pond is an ideal place to learn the initial skills needed for kayaking.


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Is Kayaking Hard on a Lake?

Is kayaking hard on a lake? No, but… This one comes with some exceptions. A small lake can be similar to a pond if it’s small and tranquil.

Some lakes are large and allow motorized boats. Boats offer the obvious obstacles- waves. Waves can rock the kayak and challenge your stability.

A large lake can be difficult due to more paddling. Paddling across a larger lake can be especially difficult (tiring) if you are paddling into the wind.

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Is Kayaking Hard on a River?

Is kayaking hard on a river? Maybe. There are more challenges to kayaking on a river when compared to a lake or pond.

The deciding factor here is the river. Some rivers flow at a slower pace and are wide with minimal obstacles. Other rivers are more narrow, with faster pace and obstacles (trees that have fallen, large boulders, etc.).

Beyond the physical and technical challenges, kayaking on a river demands mental preparedness.

Remaining calm in unexpected situations, making quick decisions, and understanding the water’s behavior are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.


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Float the Illinois in Arkansas

What to expect on this beautiful adventure.

Read it!


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Float the Illinois in Oklahoma

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Kayaking Safety

Safety is always the first concern. Someone who is new to kayaking should never float alone. Having an experienced kayaking companion is ideal.

At a minimum, you should have a second party with you and research your kayaking lake or river well to familiarize yourself with what you may encounter.


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Benefits of Kayaking

Besides the benefit of physical activity, kayaking allows you to immerse yourself in nature, promoting mindfulness and a sense of serenity as you navigate through the water.

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While kayaking can present challenges, the rewards are immeasurable.

Kayaking Equipment

Kayaking equipment can be a whole world in itself. But you must have the basic equipment: kayak, paddle, and PFD (personal floatation device).

If you don’t own this equipment, you can rent it from an outfitter along the river you will be floating.


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Conclusion

As you progress in your kayaking journey, the initial difficulties tend to subside. With practice, what was once perceived as hard can become second nature.

The feeling of gliding through the water, the beauty of nature, and the bond you form with fellow paddlers make the journey well worth the effort.


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Floating the Buffalo River

What to expect on this bucket list worthy kayaking trip.

Read about it!

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Next Post: How much $$ to float the Illinois River? Amazing Kayaking Adventures.

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Comments (16) on “Is Kayaking Hard? What you need to know + how to make it happen”

  1. Hilary says:
    August 22, 2023 at 12:23 pm

    Thank you for the tips. Would like to try this with my husband one day.

  2. Julie says:
    August 22, 2023 at 4:09 pm

    My first kayaking adventure where I fell in love with it was in a river near Athens, Georgia, where my friends took me when I visited. It was awesome on the river. I introduced my husband, and for some years, we had an inflatable kayak. We took it to Hilton Head, if I remember the correctly, and we saw dolphins swimming past our kayak. I’ve also tried kayaking (individually) on the ocean in Key Largo, and besides not being in the mood to kayak that day but did it for my husband, that is something I will not try again. The waves were too strong, and I was afraid I wasn’t going to make it back! Now we have two single-person kayaks, and we often go on Lake Ontario. The only thing we have to be careful of is that the waves can get stronger later in the day, so we have to watch that for our return trip. I haven’t been able to kayak this year because of an injury and I really miss it! So, I have to say that I agree with your assessments of the different types of water to kayak in! I’ll be downloading your freebies!

    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      August 22, 2023 at 10:34 pm

      Love that! I’ve never kayaked with dolphins or on the ocean. I look forward to giving it a try one day.

  3. Hari says:
    August 22, 2023 at 11:13 pm

    Kayaking sounds like an amazing adventure to me. Definitely need to give it a try. Thanks for sharing.

    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      August 28, 2023 at 10:44 am

      It is absolutely an adventure!!

  4. Literally Laurie says:
    August 28, 2023 at 8:59 am

    I find it relaxing but we go a calm lake water. My 82-year-old Dad is starting to slow down but got in a really nice long paddle recently and really made my summer! 🙂

    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      August 28, 2023 at 10:45 am

      I hope I can still kayak in later years! It can be a pretty gentle activity as long as you remain physically able to get in and out of the kayak.

  5. Marcia Moulton says:
    August 30, 2023 at 8:33 pm

    I LOVE kayaking! I live down the road from a pond. A family of loons lives there, so I take my kayak out and go watch them. So peaceful! ❤️

  6. Courtney says:
    August 31, 2023 at 6:48 am

    Kayaking is very popular around me. I appreciate your tips!

  7. Melissa says:
    August 31, 2023 at 7:59 am

    I haven’t kayaked in such a long time! You’ve inspired me to get back to it. Thank you!

  8. Jess G says:
    August 31, 2023 at 12:30 pm

    Great info! The last time I tried kayaking, I realized my balance needs some major work – I’ll have to try it again & try not to dunk myself lol!

  9. Maryanne says:
    September 9, 2023 at 6:43 am

    I did do some sea kayaking once when I was in New Zealand. It was hard work paddling into the wind but very rewarding. Thanks for sharing this informative post!

  10. Tania says:
    September 9, 2023 at 8:16 am

    My husband and I love kayaking. It’s definitely an easy way to connect with nature.

  11. Victoria @ The Contented Reader says:
    September 9, 2023 at 10:02 am

    This is such an informative post! I was a little nervous to kayak for the first time but now it’s a constant activity I do when I’m at my cottage. I feel at peace kayaking on the lake when I’m at my cottage and I’m so glad it’s something I tried! Thanks for sharing!

  12. Tracy McHugh says:
    September 9, 2023 at 5:01 pm

    Great tips! I love kayaking but it definitely is difficult for me, especially when I am in the sun too long 🙂

    1. ~Brandi~ says:
      September 11, 2023 at 5:05 pm

      Same! I already made regular “shade breaks” and just bought a shade umbrella to test out soon.

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