Kayaking 101

Kayaking 101 class is combination of lecture and on-water instruction and practice.
You will learn proper stroke fundamentals and boat handling to increase
confidence and skilled control of the kayak.

Getting to know your kayak:
- parts of your kayak
- how to handle and carry your kayak
- cartopping your kayak
- kayaking paddles, parts and features

Preparing for kayaking:
- proper clothing
- preparing for wind & weather
- stretching

Strokes:
- forward & reverse
- forward sweep & reverse sweep
- draw
- scull

Rescue & safety:
- low brace
- tired paddler assist
- tows

Classes are held at Gladstone Recreation Area in Illinois.

Bring comfortable paddling clothes, a towel and change of clothes, sunscreen and bug spray, plenty of water and a lunch or snack.

Transfers and Cancellations

River Basin reserves the right to cancel due to storms, lack of participants, or any other reason we feel affects the safety and learning environment. Classes will not be cancelled due to light rainfall, or ocassional passing weather. Instructor makes weather determination at the onset of the class. Cancellations by River Basin are transferrable to later classes or fully refundable, or a makeup class may be offered. Student must request cancellation before the 10th day prior to class for full refund, or 50% refund between the 10th to 5th day before class. Please notify by phone message during daytime hours, or email . If you miss the class or are substantially late, you may forfeit the class.