How to Learn to Roll a Kayak

Capsizing happens. But if you can roll your kayak, it won't ruin a day of paddling.

Instructions

    • 1

      While in your kayak and with it upside down in the water, do a modified sit-up to your left side.

    • 2

      Push your hands up and out of the water: keep your forearms against the side of your kayak.

    • 3

      Angle your wrist so that you paddle blade will have a slight climbing angle as it sweeps away from the kayak on the surface of the water.

    • 4

      Keep your head near the surface and sweep your body; paddle around the side of the kayak.

    • 5

      The hip snap begins as you begin the sweep but continues until the roll is completed.

    • 6

      Use the paddle to brace yourself while you straighten your back. Once you have straightened yourself up, you can begin paddling your kayak to get back into control.