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Canoeing

Canoeing involves using a paddle to move across the water in a narrow vessel.

An Overview of Canoeing

Canoeing offers "something for everyone!" Waterways are the arteries of our island nation! There are different types of canoeing including; Canoe Slalom, Freestyle Kayaking, Canoe Sailing, Polo, Sea Kayaking, Sprint Racing and more!

To promote and develop canoeing for disabled people, the British Canoe Union & Canoe England use the concept and term Paddle-Ability to address the issue of participation in canoe sport and canoe recreation. Paddle-Ability focuses on the individuals' ability in canoeing rather than disability.

In all forms of kayaking you use a double bladed paddle and will be in a seated position with your legs in front of you.

Canoes and kayaks vary greatly in design, shape and size dependant on the type of canoeing, the type of water and the size of craft suitable for you. But if you are new to the sport don't worry about this level of detail, the best thing to do is go along to a local club or centre, or try one of our starter sessions and you'll learn about the various styles of canoes and kayak out on your session.

Benefits

  • Uses most of the muscles in the arms and legs
  • Increased in upper arm, forearm and chest circumference and grip strength.

Costs

Membership fees vary from club to club and a one day introduction to paddle sports can cost around £60

Involvement

If you haven't canoed before, a starter course is a good idea. There are clubs and watersports centres all over the United Kingdom, with some offering slalom teaching for mixed groups or for novices.

Adaptations and Equipment

Exact equipment will vary depending on the discipline but the basics include a canoe/kayak, paddle, helmet and life jacket.

Facts

  • The kayak is thought to have originated from Greenland as a tool for hunting, fishing and transportation, while the canoe was used all over the world as a method of transportation, trade and war.
  • Canoe Slalom began in Switzerland in 1932 and was first performed on flat water before later switching to white-water rapids.

Find Canoeing Clubs/Groups Near You

Use the search below to find local organisations near you.

National Governing Bodies

British Canoeing

Contact Name
British Canoeing
Contact Email
info@britishcanoeing.org.uk
Contact Telephone
0845 370 9500

Canoe Scotland

Contact Name
British Canoeing
Contact Email
office@canoescotland.org
Contact Telephone
00131 317 7314
Pinkston Panthers

Pinkston Panthers

Pinkston Panthers is a canoe/ kayak club based at Pinkston Watersports centre in the heart of Glasgow. We aim to teach new skills in a friendly and supportive environment. We run Summer kids camps and throughout the year have a club night on a Wednesday.

Pinkston Watersports

Pinkston Watersports

Pinkston is a paddlesport community center, home to Scotland's only artificial whitewater course, located just 5 minutes from Glasgow city centre! We offer taster and progressive kayak and SUP sessions; whitewater tubing; and community and school groups.

Glasgow Kayak Club

Glasgow Kayak Club

Glasgow Kayak Club is a recreational kayaking club encouraging all forms of paddling in Glasgow. Based out of Pinkston Watersports in the summer months, Glasgow Kayak Club’s members range from complete beginners to accomplished sea paddlers and river ru

Firhill Youth Project and Community Sports Hub

Firhill Youth Project and Community Sports Hub

We are the focal point for the local community with an interest in supporting the health and development of local children and young people. We are also a Community Sports Hub and work with a variety of partners for the benefit of the local community.