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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…
Here are some factors to consider when planning your kayaking adventure…
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Table of Contents
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
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.
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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Thank you for the tips. Would like to try this with my husband one day.
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!
Love that! I’ve never kayaked with dolphins or on the ocean. I look forward to giving it a try one day.
Kayaking sounds like an amazing adventure to me. Definitely need to give it a try. Thanks for sharing.
It is absolutely an adventure!!
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! 🙂
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.
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! ❤️
Kayaking is very popular around me. I appreciate your tips!
I haven’t kayaked in such a long time! You’ve inspired me to get back to it. Thank you!
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!
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!
My husband and I love kayaking. It’s definitely an easy way to connect with nature.
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!
Great tips! I love kayaking but it definitely is difficult for me, especially when I am in the sun too long 🙂
Same! I already made regular “shade breaks” and just bought a shade umbrella to test out soon.