J-Stroke

I took a kayaking lesson this morning. It was FUN.

I learned about paddles, how to hold them and which side is up and paddle angles and how paddles can act as sails if it's windy.

I learned strokes: draw, sculling, J, backwards and forwards and combos, and more that I can't recall at the moment.

I learned positioning, but I can't really get to the third position. That's a lean with the water lapping the cockpit. I learned the importance of increasing the body's points of connection to the kayak. I learned rescue techniques, and the importance of paddle floats and pumps.

I heartily endorse ERBA (in Essex), for anyone interested in learning about kayaking.