We are often asked what is the fastest way to progress in kayaking and we can say that the winning formula is not the same for everyone… but surely the answer is one: hard work!
Creek kayaking is practicable in spring and summer and with a little luck even in autumn. Winter, however, must not be seen as a pause for reflection, but rather as a time when we can consolidate our technique and find other ideas for further growth. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Flat water training: Even in flat water you can go kayaking, indeed it is a preparatory way to train the strength and thrust of the kayak. A winning combo to start the season well trained is to go to the gym as well. Leaning on a kayak club can be a way to get together with friends and encourage each other to train together.
- Rodeo: Unfortunately the lack of spots in Italy does not help in this direction… But take advantage whenever you can if you have the opportunity to test your skills. This is also a good way to become more confident with the roll.
- Slalom training: Surely this is the winning path for a rapid evolution of the technique in kayaking, as it allows you to develop technical skills transferable in the river even with simple workouts in flat water. The slalom kayaks are carbon-made and are very unstable and therefore allow you to acquire great sensitivity in whitewater. So why not take advantage of the winter season to enroll in a slalom course?
- Swimming pool: Perhaps it is the favorite meeting point of all winter kayakers, as it becomes a moment of aggregation to chat and especially you are warm! It is absolutely not to be underestimated as it allows to consolidate the roll for those who feel they have it as a weak element and generally continue to practice it.
- Open discussion: The history of guided discussion as a didactic strategy was born since the time of Socrates, as it required a high level of critical thinking to address any type of problem. Those who participate in a discussion have the opportunity to share ideas that contribute to mutual understanding, since the comparison allows the comparison between different and even conflicting positions. What better opportunity for growth then can be listening and sharing their knowledge and technical skills with other kayakers?
