How to Control a River Kayak

Although kayaking may look easy; as the kayak rips through untamed waters, paddling and maneuvering requires proper technique, experience and communication. The adrenalin rush a paddler receives from maneuvering through calm rivers or roaring rapids is one of the main reasons he pursues this thrilling sport. Whether you are a whitewater enthusiast or a beginner learning the sport of river kayaking, understanding the importance and techniques of control can keep you and your partner from capsizing.

Things You'll Need

  • Kayak (Single or Tandem)
  • Paddles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Occupy the seat of a single-seat kayak or the back or "stern" of a tandem kayak. If you are kayaking in difficult rivers with a more inexperienced paddler than yourself, take control of the steering and balance of the tandem kayak from the rear. If you are in a single-seated kayak, use the position of the paddle to dictate direction and speed.

    • 2

      Train your muscles to disassociate your upper body from your lower body movements. By separating movements between your hips, upper torso and upper body, you achieve maximum efficiency and successfully power your kayak with every stroke. Use the blade of your paddle to actively change direction and maintain control of your kayak.

    • 3

      Communicate with your tandem kayak partner. According to the Kayaking Beginner website, the most important element of tandem kayaking is effective communication and teamwork. The more experienced paddler should control the stern because the front paddler can easily hear behind him. If the front paddler should need to communicate with the stern paddler, he should turn his head to the side to listen and speak with the paddler operating the stern position. The forward paddler is the eyes of the river and need to verbally communicate with the stern paddler to steer the boat and avoid obstacles and collisions.

    • 4

      Use the C-Stroke technique to create sync and efficient paddling between the forward and stern paddlers. The forward paddler should place his paddle vertically on the right, front-side of the kayak. The left hand should be on top of the paddle with the arm extended and elbows bent at a 45-degree angle. The beginning of the stroke should start with the top hand positioned above your head and end over the center of the cockpit.

    • 5

      Lean slightly forward to extend your reach area to increase the power of your stroke. Place your feet firmly on the footrests and rotate your upper body as you draw. The forward paddler should control the front, right-hand side of the tandem kayak while the stern paddler control the back, left-hand side of the kayak. This style of kayaking is sometimes referred to as the "Inside Circle" technique and is effective in controlling a river kayak.