WHY COME TO A POOL SESSION?
Well, its a lot of fun. You can learn new skills or improve your existing skills. You don't have to go into the water, you can come and observe.
WHAT CAN YOU DO IN THE POOL?
Most people use pool sessions to practice or learn how to roll their kayaks. But beginners can use the safe environment of the pool setting to learn or practice the basics of
- capsize and wet exit
- self rescue
- assisted rescue
- floating and swimming with your PFD (life jacket)
- becoming comfortable upside down in your kayak
- practice boat control such as edging and bracing
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO PARTICIPATE?
Every pool session has certain rules imposed by the sponsor (ConnYak), the owner of the pool (Wallingford), and of course what the insurance company requires. Mostly these are common sense rules. Almost all pool sessions will require that you sign a waiver. If under 18 years old a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
All you really need is a desire to attend. At ConnYak pool sessions you can come and observe for free. If you want to go into the pool then you'll need to pay the fee.
CLOTHING
You'll need at least a swim suit, or gear such as paddling shorts and shirt. Most people will wear some sort of wet suit or neoprene clothing to allow them to stay in the water longer. Even in a 'warm' pool the water temperature is colder than your body and you will start to feel cold if you are in the water for an extended period of time. You won't be working hard like swimming so your body won't be generating heat to keep you warm.
DO YOU NEED EQUIPMENT?
It is certainly best if you can bring your own kayak, paddle and PFD. Some pool sessions have some equipment that is available on a first come basis. Other gear that many find useful are nose clips, goggles or dive masks, and helmets.
DOES CONNYAK HAVE EQUIPMENT?
ConnYak itself does not have any equipment. Individual members may bring extra equipment, or be willing to let you try their kayaks or gear. You would have to either come to a session and see if there was equipment available or make some arrangements before hand.
IS THERE INSTRUCTION?
ConnYak does not provide instruction. ConnYak has members that have a variety of experience and some are willing to assist you with your learning. Some ConnYak members are instructors with ACA or BCU certifications. You may be able to make your own arrangements for instruction.
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