subject: A Basic Overview Of Kayaks And Kayaking [print this page] Maybe it's time you gave kayaking a tryMaybe it's time you gave kayaking a try. It is a sport with a lot of variations, which are covered below in this article.
Let's start with the very basic facts - kayaking involves moving yourself manually on the water while riding a kayak. Unlike canoeing, paddling a kayak involves back and forth motions, and the kayaking paddle allows for this with its curved portions on both ends. Kayaking is more than just that, though. Let's take a look.
The best literal translation for kayak would be hunting boat. It has been used throughout history by people living on shores to pursue food in the ocean. The kayak originated in the Arctic region, where their early indigenous folk created boats with wooden frames and animal hide for fishing purposes. In modern times, kayaking refers to a much broader scope of activities. That being said, the basic boat remains the same.
The average kayak is long and thin and can fit one person. Since there are different variants of kayaking, the same applies with the boat's design. A sea kayak is longer and thinner than the average kayak, for easy travel through sea waters. Kayaks designed for running challenging river rapids, on the other hand, are short to facilitate maneuverability and the opportunity to roll to upright oneself after being flipped upside down.
There are some kayaks that allow the person using them to sit on them differently, using a flat indention rather than the person sitting inside the kayak itself. Lakes and other calm waters are perfect places to use these kayaks.
Kayaking comes in different varieties, as you may know by now after reading this. Some people love to take them out on a cruise around a bay in Alaska or any ocean areas. There are others who love shooting the rapids in a kayak, obviously after the thrill and adventure that goes with it.
Kayaking can be both thrilling or relaxing - it all depends on your tastes and preferences. The important thing is that you are happy doing what you're doing and enjoying your kayaking experience.
