Training
Check the Event Schedule on this website and/or the KCKA
webstie for scheduled training activities.
Local training is a bit scarce so you will have to take some initiative to find it. Here are some options.
Kayak Basics – Red Cross
This class is usually held in the fall and early spring. I believe the class is limited to 8 students so it is best to call the Wichita chapter of the Red Cross and sign up early. The class lasts 4 evenings and is taught in a nice warm indoor pool at WSU. The class has a slant toward whitewater kayaking but everything you learn in this class will make you a better paddler regardless of your choice in equipment or type of boating. I have taken this class twice and I am a better touring kayaker because of it. I also learned the moves to roll both my whitewater and touring kayaks. In the past tuition has been $50 for all 4 evenings. I highly recommend this training for all paddlers who have not yet taken this training. Regardless of your skill level, you will learn something. The pool time alone is worth the tuition. Contact the Wichita chapter of the Red Cross for information about this training.
Touring Kayak Rescue Techniques – T.J. Hittle
This class will teach you self-rescue and assisted rescue techniques. You need these rescues to reenter your touring kayak in case of a deep water capsize. You should learn, practice and master at least two of them before paddling deep water in a touring kayak. Contact T.J. Hittle for information about this training.
Videos and Books
Many good videos and books are available to help you. Several paddling magazines are available which contain both informative and entertaining content. The
Kayak Chapter of the Kansas Canoe & Kayak Association has a library of videos that can be checked out by members. For information about videos and books, get references from your favorite paddle shop, web articles and your paddling friends.
On-the-River Training
Join a KCKA float trip and get help from other paddlers. You will probably get more help then you can absorb. If you are new, be sure to contact the trip leader to confirm the trip will be suitable for your skill level. The first things you will want to learn are how to make your boat go where you want, to paddle forward and keep up with the group and how to steer away from obstacles. At this level you can go on a lot of trips and have a lot of fun. Ask a trip leader and/or fellow paddlers to assist you with on-the-river training.
Special Demonstrations/Practice/Training Sessions
Occasionally a KCKA member or trip leader will offer an organized session where you can learn some aspect of paddling. This could involve showing you how to roll, perform some advanced paddle stroke, first aid, or how to perform a rescue technique. Watch for these postings in the same places you watch for trips.
On the Web
Many paddlers and related businesses have websites that contain valuable information. Check the listing of links on this website and/or use your search engine to see what you can find. If you find a good one, please recommend it for the links page on this website.
Performance
Video eSchool
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