No matter what your skill level or even your age, kayaking offers fun, exercise and enjoyment. Before you grab a paddle and hit the water though, bone up on the basics. A few minutes learning the fundamentals of kayaking will only add to the thrill of the ride while increasing the safety of all involved.

Once you have your kayak, get acquainted. Sit down in the passenger well, all the way to the back, knees bent but not so much that they will interfere with your paddle. Grasp the paddle firmly, thumbs pointed toward one another, hands about the width of your shoulders apart. This may feel awkward. You will discover your perfect individual paddle grip as your kayaking skills develop. The kayak paddle stroke is unique among watercraft; it both propels the boat and stabilizes it. There's a lot of physical exertion involved. Don't expect to master the technique in one outing.

A lot of people are accustomed to the images of kayaks rolling over in the whitewater and then miraculously popping back up, the occupant drenched but safely seated. While it is true that kayaks are resilient and kayaking is a predominantly safe sport, no one should hop into a kayak and go out on the water without safety instruction, a personal flotation device, and a buddy. Although the kayak roll looks easy and even fun, it really isn't the best way to right yourself and get back in the boat. Get out of the kayak, right it and then climb back into it.

Whether it is whitewater kayaking or open sea kayaking, it's hard to find a more heart-pounding natural workout. For those not up to the physical exertion of hard core kayak adventures, the boats also offer pleasurable still lake excursions. In short, sliding into a kayak offers fun on the water for almost every taste. Take the time to learn the basics of kayaking and you'll be ready for a day of exciting wet recreation.