Kajak Grundkurs Level 1

Would you like to learn how to kayak? In the Kayak Beginners Course Level 1, you will learn all the basics to be able to paddle independently on easy white water. We show you what to look out for on the river and how to use the equipment correctly. The technique you learn in the kayak beginners' course is a good foundation for getting off to a flying start in kayaking! Unlike other basic kayak courses, we don't teach you a "beginner's technique", but the basics that will accompany you all the way into difficult white water.

Our beginner courses are available in Tyrol, Corsica, and Slovenia. The basic courses in Tyrol are held on weekends throughout the season. The course content and schedule may vary depending on the location and duration of the course.

Course Content

• Material: getting to know the equipment, adjusting the kayak, holding the paddle correctly
• Paddling straight ahead: efficient forward stroke and upper body posture
• Paddling curves: Arc stroke, draw stroke, power stroke, weight shift and upper body rotation
• Slowing momentum and backward paddling: Counterstroke and backstroke
• Flow theory and safety basics for river navigation
• Navigating eddies and crossing currents
• Changing direction on the river

Exercises

• Learning the basic techniques on the lake
• Capsizing on the lake: safely exiting the boat underwater
• Canoe polo: playful consolidation of what has been learned
• Relaxed paddling in moving water
• Practicing paddle strokes in a river current
• Ferry glide across the river (traversing)
• Boat edging to perform direction changes
• Entering and leaving different eddies

Prerequisites

• Be able to swim confidently
• Be in overall good health
• Be at least 12 years old

Goals

• Discover the fun of kayaking
• Learn all the important basic techniques

What to Bring

• Long-sleeved fleece or wool top
• Swimwear
• Water bottle and snack bar for the river trip