How to Flip Yourself Over in a Kayak

Paddling a kayak in a lake or river allows you to enjoy nature while getting an upper body workout as well. Although kayaks are stable craft, occasionally when riding in rough waters, or if you lean too far in one direction, it is possible to flip your kayak. When using a kayak that you are secured inside, it is important to know how to turn your overturned kayak right-side up if you are flipped while kayaking.

Things You'll Need

  • Paddle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bend up to your non-dominant side, like you are doing an angled sit-up.

    • 2

      Hold both hands out of the water, with your hands parallel to the direction of the kayak.

    • 3

      Tuck your rear elbow in toward your body.

    • 4

      Drive the lead hand down so the paddle is brought underwater, keeping your rear elbow tight, to start the rotation.

    • 5

      Drive your weight down onto the hip on your non-dominant side as you begin to rotate. This causes the center of gravity to shift and works with the paddle to right the kayak.

    • 6

      Place the paddle in the water behind you and hold it still to stop your motion.