1 STAR Kayaking Personal Proficiency Handbook Singapore Canoe

1 STAR Kayaking Personal Proficiency
Handbook
Singapore Canoe Federation Standards
A FULL-SPECTRUM GUIDE TO 1 STAR KAYAKING FOR THE AVID KAYAKERS
 Theoretical and Technical skills in the 1 STAR Syllabus
 Step by Step Pictures
 Tips & Tricks
 Common Errors
Page | 1
Content
Page
Acknowledgements
Preface
Introduction
Introduction to 1 STAR Kayaking
Kayaking Personal and Coaching Certification Pathway
4
The Singapore Canoe Federation 1 STAR Kayaking Syllabus
5
Module 1: Theory
1.1 Origins of Kayak
6
1.2 Evolution of kayak
7
1.3 Different type kayaks & paddle
10
1.31 Parts and features of kayak
16
1.32 Parts and features of paddle
20
1.33 Personal floatation devices
22
1.34 Appropriate attire
25
1.4 Seating posture
26
1.5 Stretching exercise
1.51 Stretches on land
27
1.52 Stretches in boat
28
1.6 Potential hazards and risk controls
29
1.7 1 Star personal award assessment
30
Page | 2
Module 2 : Foundation Skills
2.1 Lifting and carrying
33
2.2 Embarking and Disembarking
35
2.3 Forward paddling
37
2.4 Reverse paddling & stopping
39
2.5 Forward sweep stroke
41
2.6 Reverse sweep stroke
43
2.7 Capsize drill
45
2.8 Emptying of kayak
49
Module 3: Directional Skill
3.1 ‘J’ Draw
51
Module 4 : Rescue skills
4.1 Rafted ‘X’ Rescue
53
Module 5 : Support skill
5.1 Low support recovery
56
5.2 Stern rudder
57
The 1 to 3 Star Kayaking Rubrics
59
References
63
Additional notes
65
Page | 3
Introduction to 1 STAR kayaking
Kayaking Personal & Coaching Certification Pathway
Pre-Entry Requirements
for level 1 coaching
award:
 2 Star award
 Swimming 50m
without PFD
 Member of SCF
affiliates
 At least 18 years and
above
 Endorsed by at least
a level 2 coach as
“competent to
proceed to level 1
coach training
course
(For more information
refer to
http://www.scf.org.sg/Awar
ds/Coaching1.html )
Page | 4
The Singapore Canoe Federation 1 STAR
Kayaking Syllabus
Aim: To introduce beginners to the sports in a safe and enjoyable way.
Environment :
Simple Coastal Water
Pre-entry requirements
Type of Craft :
Single seat closed cockpit kayak
Swimming 50m with Personal Floatation Device
Training / Assessor:
Level 1 Coach or above
Theory
 Basic equipment , including features of kayak
 Basic safety issues
Technical Skills
 Lifting and carrying
 Launching and coming ashore
 Disembarking and embarking
 Forward paddle a circuit of 100m with directional control
 Reverse paddle a circuit of 25m with directional control
 Stopping
 Forward and reverse sweep strokes
 Planned capsize followed by swimming ashore with retention of kayak and paddle
 Emptying of water
 Simply beginnings of moving sideways (‘J’ –draw )
 Simple beginnings of stern rudder ( going in a straight line)
 Simple beginnings of low recovery
 Rafted ‘X’ rescue
Page | 5
Module 1: Theory
1.1 Origins of Kayak
The term ‘Kayak’ was picked up from the Inuit language that meant “Hunter’s Boat”. It was used by
the Inuit people of the Arctic Region to hunt animals on inland lakes, rivers and the sea. This is
because, many places that the Inuit families are living on are not fertile lands and it is hard for them to
grow their own food, and support their population. The Inuit people then use it to travel long journeys
too, in search of food for the family.
"2 Krazy Kayakers: Happy Inuit Day!." 2 Krazy
Kayakers. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 May 2012.
"Eskimo Boys in Kayak." Old Pictures. N.p., n.d.
Web. 20 May 2012.
Do you know?
Inuit kayaks were first made from wood barks and bone frames
from the animal bones they hunt, and using the animal skins over
the kayak!
Page | 6
1.2 Evolution of Kayak
The first to know of the Eskimo kayaks used for hunting were the British, and in
1890 British introduced kayak to Europe with a different purposes: for
recreational and touring uses. Europe discovered kayaks as a great way to
explore the rivers that flow across the continent, and the excitement of whitewater in the rivers that drain the Alps.
The birth of kayaking as we know nowadays is generally assumed to have
originated in 1865 by John Macgregor. In July 29th 1865, John Magregor who is
from Scotland sets to be first recreational paddler who travelled all around
Europe, recording down his adventure on papers, with the primary goal of
pure enjoyment.
http://www.paddleworld.com/story/MacGregor1.jpg
http://www.paddleworld.com/story/MacGregor3.jpg
Page | 7
As the main purposes of kayaking were touring and comfort, the kayaks were
built with detachable frameworks, which allowed people to be comfortable
transported inside a knapsack(bag carried on back), and quickly assembled at
the desired place.
http://www.duckworksmagazine.com/11/letters/yost-1s.jpg
Shortly after that, a German called Heyman said that ‘nature is our model’ and
then he started to built kayaks differently, wide in the front of a kayak and
narrow at the back of the kayak. Like the shape of the fish.
Page | 8
Do You Know?
Kayaking began to function as
sport since 1840’s decade!
Kayaking received its first
Olympic competition title in
1924, there was a kayak
exhibition with 11 canoeists but
was not official until 1936
Olympic Games held in Berlin.
Some day near the end of 1930’s
decade, William Fonde, a British
naval designer realised that the
kayaks will be faster if it’s longer,
which led to kayak
manufacturers and designers to
make longer kayaks.
http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Au-z81wq52o/0.jpg
Little by little these crafts were
altering up to the presentsophisticated competition kayaks
present nowadays.
Page | 9
1.3 Different types of kayak & paddle
K1 Racing Kayak
Kayak Type
Racing Kayak
Material
Carbon/ Fibre glass
Environment
used in
Flat water
e.g. Lake
Kayak
length Long 5.2 meters (17 ft)
(Short/Long)
Hull
shape V- shape
(Flat, Roundedshape)
Advantages
Easy to paddle straight, Fast forward speed (minimal
resistance)
Disadvantages
Difficult to turn, Unstable when stationary ,Fragile
Page | 10
Sit On Top Kayak
Kayak Type
Sit on top
Material
Rotomolded plastic
Environment used in
Sea ,Flat-water
e.g. lake
Kayak
(Short/Long)
Hull
shape
Rounded-shape)
length Long ,
4.2meters (14 ft)
(Flat, Round Hull
Advantages
Suitable for novice as it is easy for re-entry if
capsized. Maximum can sit up to 4 paddler
Disadvantages
Wider and slower than other kayak
Due to the easy re-entry of kayak, sit on top kayak does not require any
certification to rent, suitable for elderly or people who just to kayak
leisurely.
Page | 11
Sea Kayak
Kayak Type
Sea kayak
Material
Rotomolded plastic / Fibre glass
Environment
used in
Sea ,
Flat-water: lake
Kayak
length Long
(Short/Long)
16 to 19 feet (4.9 to 5.8 m)
Hull
shape V shape
(Flat, Roundedshape)
Advantages
Easy to cut through water (minimal resistance)
Disadvantages
Harder to turn if compare with whitewater kayak like play
boat.
Unstable when stationary
Page | 12
Freestyle Kayak/White Water kayak
Kayak Type
Play boat
Material
Rotomolded plastic
Environment
used in
White-water :River
Kayak
length Short
(Short/Long)
4 – 10 feet (1.2 to 3.0 m) long
Hull
shape Flat hull
(Flat, Roundedshape)
Advantages
Easier to turn and spin the boat
Edges on the hull allow the paddler to carve and perform
rodeo moves.
Disadvantages
Hard to paddle straight
Hard to control without advance skills.
To be a white water kayaker, you need to be proficient in skills like
rolling. You`ll need a helmet, a PFD (Personal floatation device or life
jacket) , sprays skirt and of course a white water kayak.
Page | 13
Creek Boat
Kayak Type
Creek boat
Material
Rotomolded plastic
Environment
used in
White-water
River
Kayak
length Short
(Short/Long)
(2.4 -3m)10 fts
Hull
shape Round hull
(Flat, Roundedshape)
Advantages
More volume than play boat making them more stable,
faster and higher floating
Disadvantages
Harder to paddle straight
Hard to control without advance skills.
Creek boat have high volume hulls, with volume evenly distributed front to
rear , this hull shape let boat pop to the surface quickly after a big drop
hence widely used in whitewater. The shape and buoyancy of creek boat
also make a good novice boat.
Page | 14
Surf Kayak
"bullitt X s." Mega Surfkayaks, Mega performance kayaks.. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 May 2012.
<http://www.surfkayaks.com/surf/jeste
Kayak Type
Surf Kayak
Material
glass composites (mixture of carbon fibre, Kevlar and
fibreglass) or rotomolded plastic
Environment
used in
Sea
Kayak
length Short
(Short/Long)
6 - 11ft
Hull
shape Flat hull and hard rails similar to surf board
(Flat, Roundedshape)
Advantages
Able to “cut” through wave similar to a surfboard
Disadvantages
hard to control on a steep breaking wave
Page | 15
1.31 Parts and feature of kayak

Different types of kayak have different unique features. So be sure to try the
features out and familiarise with it.
Adjustable seats to
ensure a comfortable
trip and experience.
Adjustable seat
Buckets are used for
storage for bottle and
dry bags for easy
accessibility.
Bucket
Wheel is installed to
aid in transporting
the kayak.
Wheels
Page | 16
 Bow and stern
hatches allow
access to the
interior of the
boat for
storage.
Hatches
 Storage
hatches are
made to be
watertight but
may not be
completely
water proof.
Deck lines can
secure spare
paddlers, map
case, compass or
water bottle.
Deck lines
Rudder can be
used for steering
the kayak.
Rudder
Page | 17
Hull shapes
Characteristic of a boat`s bottom greatly affect performance
Rounded hulls: Have
lesser forward waterresistance and thus
greater speed.
Round hull
V-shaped hulls:
Provide the least initial
stability but offer
better secondary
stability and straightline paddling.
V-shape hull
Flat-bottom hulls:
Have the most initial
stability in flat-water
conditions
Flat hull
Page | 18
Parts of kayak
1. Bow : front of the kayak
2. Stern :end of the kayak
3. Port side: on your left side when seated properly
4. Starboard: on your right side when seated properly
5. Deck : top part of the kayak, usually slopes slightly in a moderate
inverted V or rounded to shed water
6. Carrying toggles: loops of webbing or plastic handles at the bow and
stern. Use these to lift your boat.
7. Coaming : the edge around the cock-pit opening. The lip shape of the
coaming provides a place to attach spray skirt
Page | 19
1.32 Parts and features of paddle
The decision and the expense are second only to kayak itself!
The types of paddling you do—white-water, touring, recreational, or surfing will
call for different styles of paddle blades come short and wide or long and narrow.
Shafts can be shorter or longer. Materials range from plastic to fibreglass to wood
to carbon fibre, or combination.
Parts of paddle
A button in the middle of the shaft
allows you to feather the blade or
break the paddle apart entirely
Drip ring

Drip rings are adjustable rubber rings that reduce water to run down
the shaft to your hands.
Page | 20
feathering
 Blades can be feathered to offset at an angle of between 60°and 90°
 With an un-feathered paddle .both blades are in same plane
 Experiment with both style to learn with set up you prefer
Page | 21
1.33 Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)
A flotation aid known as the personal flotation device (PFD) is a
important piece of paddling equipment. It will help to keep you afloat if
you capsize.
3 types of PFDs:
European Standard(EN Standard) is one of the recognised standards for
personal flotation devices that has been approved by a recognised appraiser
Type 1
Designed to keep you in a safe "face up"
floating position
I. European Standard EN 3991993Lifejackets – 275N
II. European Standard EN 3961993Lifejackets – 150N
III. European Standard EN 3951993Lifejackets – 100N
Type 2
Less buoyancy than the PFD Type 1 and
may not rotate you to a “face up”
floating position
I. European Standard EN 3931993Lifejackets – 50N
Page | 22
Type 3
Has similar buoyancy characteristics as
PFD Type 2 but is manufactured in a
wider range of colours.
I. European standard EN 3931993Lifejackets – 50N
Life jacket
 A life jacket worn on the body will
turn the body of the water or an
unconscious person around and
maintain the mouth and nose clear of
the water.
 However, the life jacket does not
provide any thermal or any other
protection to the back.
 The lifejacket comes in inflatable type,
kapok filled or polyethylene foam.
 For the inflatable type, special care
must be taken to ensure that the
carbon dioxide cartridge is filled and
user should have a clear idea of the
operation of the life jacket.
Page | 23
Buoyancy vest
 A buoyancy vest is intended for use in
aquatic sports to assist in floatation
during short-term immersion in calm
water.
 The buoyancy vest provides some
thermal protection to the wearer and
is more comfortable.
 However, it will not turn the body of
the unconscious person around in a
safe floating position.
Fitting your PFD:
1. A correctly adjusted floatation aid should fit comfortably to the body
2. Check the floatation aid by pulling it firmly upwards to ensure that it
will not come off easily
3. Also check that all the straps and buckles are fasten properly
4. Once you can move around without having the PFD hindering your
motions, try to check it by pulling the both shoulder straps or ask your
friends to help you.
5. PFD shoulder straps should not exceed your ears and your nose should
not be buried in the zipper .
Page | 24
1.34 Appropriate attire
Having the appropriate attire for kayaking is important as it provides you comfort ,
warmth and safety.
 Materials like cotton and other natural fibers are not advisable to wear for
kayaking as when it becomes wet it will draw heat away from your body.
 Advisable materials such as polypropelene , polyester or known as dri
fit/clima cool would dry faster and offer a layer of insulation.
Apprropriate footwear such as booties or sandles should be always be worn when
kayaking as there might be rocks , seashells or sea life on the sea bed.
Page | 25
1.4 Seating Posture
A sloppy posture while paddling is bad as it puts a strain at your back. Slouching
also make strokes harder to perform and less effective.
Correct posture. Body sitting
upright, maintaining a welldefined spinal. Seat back should
provide adequate back support
and your feet should be resting
comfortably on foot braces in
the kayak
Incorrect posture. Leaning or
slouching will cause inefficient
strokes which might result in
spinal injury
Page | 26
1.51 Stretches on land
Everybody should do stretches before doing any kinds of strenuous activity as it
prepares your body for the activity. Some simple stretching exercise that you can do
on land is listed below, do the same on the opposite side.
Page | 27
1.52 Stretches in boat
Some simple stretches can be also done in kayak before launching off.
 Lean forward to stretch
your back and keep it
there for approximately
10seconds.
 Do so for the opposite
side which is leaning
backwards.
 Twisting your torso left
and right can also
loosen it and prepare
your body for kayaking
as there would be a lot
of torso rotation while
kayaking.
 You can hold on to the
kayak to help you to
twist your body torso
more.
Page | 28
1.6 Potential hazards and risk control
Pool sessions
Inland flat-water
Inland moving water
Risk
involved
Paddling in close
confinement to
others
Paddling on wide area
of open water
Paddling on stretches of
moving water sometimes
on white water sections
involving the negotiation
of stoppers and standing
waves
Hazards
arising
from
risk
Collision with
other paddlers,
banging head or
other body parts
on poolside or
other boats and
possible
entrapment
Collision with other
paddlers, capsizing
kayak/canoe,
submersion in cold
water. Possible
entrapment
Loosing boat and being
washed downstream.
Entrapment in or out of
boat (in extreme cases
under water)
Effects of Cuts, bruising,
hazards and in extreme
cases broken
bones or
drowning.
Cuts, bruising and in
extreme cases broken
bones. There might be
a possibility of
hypothermia and in
extreme cases
drowning.
Minor bruising, in
extreme cases broken
bones. Possible
hypothermia might occur
and in extreme cases
drowning.
Risk
manage
ment
Qualified experienced
person/instructor to
be on hand. Adequate
clothing and safety
equipment should be
worn during session.
Qualified experienced
person/instructor for the
grade of water.
Adequate clothing and
safety equipment to be
worn during session and
spare equipment carried
Qualified
experienced
person/instructor
to be on hand.
Page | 29
1.7 1 Star Personal Award Assessment
Name:
Date:
Organization:
Tick if requirement met
Comments & Targets
Pre Perquisites
Novices involving 12 hours
tuition
Able to swim 50m with PFD
Current First Aid Certification
X
N.A.
Provide Evidence of at least a
journey of Six kilometers.
X
N.A.
3
4
5
Good
Excellent
2
Require
Improveme
nt
Poor
1
Competent
Standard
Comments & Targets
Non-paddling
techniques
Lifting, Carrying &
Launching
Forward Paddling
(100m)
With directional control
Reverse Paddling (25m)
With directional control
Stopping
show evidence of
stopping
Page | 30
Forward Sweep Strokes
Blade fully submerged /
turning on the spot
Reverse Sweep Strokes
Blade fully submerged /
turning on the spot
Beginnings of moving
sideways (J-draw)
Evidence of boat moving
sideways with bow
relatively pointing to
front
Sculling Draw Strokes
Boat remains straight
with effective sideway
motion evident & a near
vertical paddle
Introduction to Sculling
Support
Kayak tilt, water to waist
level, confident in
supporting boat
maintaining off balance
position.
Beginnings of Low
Recovery
Bowup position / punching
effect / hip-flick head
last recovery action
Page | 31
Beginnings of Stern
Rudder
Simple ruddering with
paddle blade position
low and almost parallel
to the boat / travel on
straight line
Capsize, Wet Exit, Tow
and emptying Kayak
single handedly /
retention of kayak &
paddle
Theory :
Basic parts & function of
kayak & paddle / safety
equipment / safety
issues
Page | 32
Module 2: Foundation Skills
2.1 2 man Lifting and carrying
Lifting the kayak with the help of another person would be easier and faster.
1. Stand on the opposite
sides of the kayak and
prepare to lift the kayak
up.
2. Communicate with your
friend and lift the kayak
up at the same time
while keeping your back
straight. Using the
toggles of the kayak
would be easier to lift
the kayak up.
Page | 33
3. To carry short distances
the underhand lift and
carry would be a better
choice.
4. For long distances,
overhead lift and carry
would be a better
choice.
 Tips and tricks
 Lift your kayak using the muscles in your legs as much as possible,
keeping your back straight and your knees bent. If your kayak has
toggle straps, use them to help lift the kayak up. They're easy to grab
and you won't have to bend down as far.
 Always remember to empty your kayak before you lift it up as the
extra weight will cause the kayak to be heavier.
Page | 34
2.2 Embarking and disembarking
1. Place the boat as near as the river
bank as possible. Hold on to the
cockpit to prevent the kayak from
drifting away.
2. Place the paddle across the back of
the cockpit. Put one leg into the kayak
and try to keep balance while still
holding on to the bank and the cockpit
3. Slowly slide your legs into the
cockpit while holding on to the bank
and the paddle.
Page | 35
4. Adjust your position so that you are
able to sit comfortably and place your
feet on the footrest.
 Tips and tricks
 Maintaining a low centre of gravity will help in balancing the boat
and assist in entering
 Kayak should be fully afloat in the water while entering the kayak
as there might be sharp objects in the sea bed which might spoil
the kayak’s hull
 Paddles should always be within a paddlers reach.
Page | 36
2.3 Forward Paddling
An efficient forward paddling stroke is a basic requirement for kayaking.
1. Lean forward and place the
blade to your most
comfortable and furthest
reach.
2. Put the whole blade into the
water and start to pull the
water with your lower hand
towards you.
3. The blade will follow along
side your kayak and rotate
your trunk as well to the side
where your paddle is placed.
Page | 37
4. Lift the paddle out of the
water and continue the same
motion on the other side.
Tips and tricks
 Good posture , sitting straight
 Trunk rotation , rotating your body to the side where you are
placing your paddle
 Arms extension , leaning forward to increase your reach
 Full paddle blade immersion
 Directional control
 Correct paddle holding position
Page | 38
2.4 Reverse paddling & Stopping
Backward Paddling is also a basic stroke that is important in kayaking. It is the exact
opposite of forward paddling. Besides paddling backwards it can also be a stroke
that assists you in stopping. However it might be a little hard to master compare to
forward paddling.
1. Place the back face of the
paddle at the stern of the
kayak and put it in the water.
2. Push the paddle forward while
keeping your balance on the
kayak.
Page | 39
3. As you bring the paddle
forward, keep the kayak from
going sideways by using your
hips. Repeat the steps from
the start to continue
performing the stroke
 Tips and tricks
 Body rotation helps to make the stroke much more efficient.
 Look over your shoulders occasionally so that you know what is
behind you.
 Correct paddle holding position
 Full paddle blade immersion
 Direction control

Page | 40
2.5 Forward sweep strokes
A sweep stroke is one that is primarily used for turning a kayak either to the left or
to the right.
1. Place the blade into the water
as forward as you can easily
reach. Keep the right hand
fairly low.
2. Start doing a big arc that
starts close to the bow and
pull the paddle towards the
stern to start turning.
Page | 41
3. Keep the power face of the
blade pointed away from the
kayak as you are pulling the
paddle to gain maximum
speed.
4. When you get to the end of
the stroke, rotate your body
back over the balance point of
your kayak to avoid capsizing.
 Tips and tricks
 The sweep motion moves the bow.
 The draw to the hip moves the stern.
 Edge your boat for tighter turns.
 Follow your paddle blade with your eyes.
 Strive for a quiet paddle, splashing as little as possible.
Page | 42
2.6 Reverse sweep strokes
To fasten the turn, a reverse sweep stroke could be used after a forward sweep
stroke. A reverse sweep stroke is a stroke where it is the complete opposite of
forward sweep stroke. Instead of using the power face, it uses the back face of the
paddle and starts from the stern instead of the bow of the kayak.
1. Start by rotating your torso to face
the side on which you will be
sweeping. Both hands are over the
water. Plant the blade near the
stern as close to the centerline as
possible.
2. Using the face of your paddle put
the blade into the water. You can
edge the kayak toward the side
you are sweeping on and start
relaxing your torso.
Page | 43
3. Continue applying pressure to the
back face of the blade and keep
the shaft angled low as you relax
your torso.
4. Keep spinning the kayak around
the blade until it nearly reaches
the bow. Slip the blade out of the
water.
 Tips and tricks
 The draw to the hip moves the stern.
 Follow your paddle blade with your eyes.
 Try to sweep the paddle in a circular motion.
 Full arm extension
 Near horizontal paddle position
 Trunk rotation
 Paddle sweep (end to end)
Page | 44
2.7 Capsize drill
Performing a capsize drill is important so that participants know what to do when
capsize happens. This can help to increase an individual’s confidence when they
capsize in the future.
 Perform the capsize drill only when there is an instructor or experienced/
competent rescuer in case an individual getting into difficulties.
1. Check surroundings for possible
hazards. Then check the depths of
the water to ensure that it is deep
enough to perform a safe capsize.
Tips and tricks:
 As long as the paddle is around
3/4 in the water, it is safe to
perform a capsize drill.
Page | 45
2. Place the paddle at the side of your
preference and bend forward to
grab hold of the kayak’s hull and
prepare for capsize
Tips and tricks:
 Rock left and right 3 times in order
to gain momentum which will help
to capsize easily.
3. Capsize towards your paddle side,
while holding on to the paddle and
the hull of the kayak
*Reminder: Hands must always hold on
to the hull of the kayak when during the
capsize process.
Page | 46
4. Tap the hull three times after you
are fully capsized. This will attract
others attention and ‘inform’ them
that you have capsized
5. Hold the combing of the kayak and
push your body firmly out of the
kayak.
Tips and tricks:
 Always hold on and keep your
paddle within reach so that it will
not drift away.
Page | 47
6. After exiting the kayak, swim
towards the bow of the kayak.
Call/shout for help while raising the
paddle up high so it is easier for
people to spot you.
 Tips and tricks




Confident capsize on the paddle side
Perform three taps (build confidence)
Retention of kayak and paddle (after wet exit)
Raise paddle and alert others
Page | 48
2.8 Emptying of kayak
1. Place the kayak flat
on the floor with
each guy holding to
one end.
2. Roll your kayak over
to allow most of the
water in the kayak
to be emptied.
Page | 49
3. One person will lift
up one side of the
kayak to empty the
water
*Reminder: Always keep
your back straight to
prevent spinal injury
4. Repeat this motion
for a few times to
ensure that most of
the water is
emptied and roll the
kayak back.
Page | 50
Module 3: Directional Skill
3.1 ‘J’ draw
A ‘J’ draw a simple draw stroke to help you move sideways while in the kayak.
1. Place the right paddle
power face into the
water as far away from
the kayak as you can.
2. Pull the right blade in
toward the kayak. This
will pull the kayak
sideways toward the
paddle blade.
Page | 51
3. As the blade is coming
towards you, you should
also use your core body
to pull your body to the
paddle.
4. Once the blade is near
the stern of the kayak,
slice the water in order
to bring out the paddle
out of the water and
repeat Step 1 in order to
keep on moving
sideways
 Tips and tricks
 Try not to lean too much to the direction you are pulling as you
might capsize
 The usage of your core to help in the sideways movement.
 For a more efficient draw, edge to the opposite that you are
pulling.
 Full paddle immersion
 Fixed trunk rotation
 Near vertical paddle position
 Directional control (sideways)
Page | 52
Module 4: Rescue skills
4.1 Rafted ‘X’ Rescue
 Rafted ‘X’ rescue is one of the most efficient and fastest way to empty the kayak
and assist the victim to re-enter the kayak
 This rescue requires 2 rescuer as it would provide a more faster and efficient
rescue if there were to be a lot of waves.
1. Once capsized, the rescuers will
arrive and the victim should
keep calm and stay near the
bow of the rescuer while
waiting for rescue.
2. Victim will then pass the paddle
and the bow of the kayak to the
rescuer to perform the rescue
Page | 53
3. The rescuers will pull the flipped
kayak onto their kayak to drain
out the water.
4. The rescuers will perform a seesaw method to drain out the
water.
5. Flip the kayak over after the
water is drained out.
Page | 54
6. Assist the victim to re-enter the
kayak. The victim needs to put
their legs into the kayak first
and slowly slide in.
7. After the victim slides in and
adjust his/her seating position,
return the paddle to the victim
and continue paddling.
 Tips and tricks
 Victim management, comfort and calm the victim down.
 Equipment management, keep the paddle within reach at all
times.
Page | 55
Module 5: Support skill
5.1 Low support recovery
Low support recovery is a technique whereby it helps you to recover your kayak
into a stable position if you are losing balance and about to capsize.
1. Place your hands on the paddle
shaft and edge the kayak to one
side.
2. With one hand over the water,
slap or push down on the water
with the paddle’s back face
keeping the blade flat to the
water
3. Simultaneously while slapping the
water, lift up with your lower
knee (the one on the paddle
action side of the kayak).
 Tips and tricks




Try not to edge too much at the start as you might capsize.
Box up position
Correct paddle position (back face brace)
Correct paddle exit recovery
Page | 56
5.2 Stern rudder
Stern rudder is use to make slight direction changes and also to keep the kayak
running in a straight line
1. You will need to a few
forward stroke first before
performing this stroke to
gain some speed and
momentum
2. Place the paddle in the
water while the power face
faces the boat.
3. Slowly extend your back
arm and move the paddle
until the power face faces
the kayak
Page | 57
4. Maintain upright posture
while placing the paddle
parallel to the kayak
5. The paddle will act as a fin
to keep the kayak running in
a straight line
 Tips and tricks
 The stern rudder will be more efficient if the kayak has a greater
forward speed
 Always have the drive face of the blade pointing towards the
kayak and play around with to maintain a straight line
 Correct paddle position
 Full paddle blade immersion
 Directional control (straight)
 Directional control (steering)
Page | 58
The 1 to 3 STAR Kayaking Rubrics
1 STAR
Forward Paddling
2 STAR
3 STAR
Efficient Forward Paddling
Efficient Forward Paddling
Efficient Reverse Paddling
Efficient Reverse Paddling





100m w/
Directional
Control
Reverse Paddling

Basic
Techniques
25m w/
Directional
Control
Sense of control
Awareness of
surroundings
Stopping
Planned Capsize,
swimming ashore
with retention of
Kayak and Paddle
Planned Capsize, swimming Usage of Long Tow
ashore with retention of
Kayak and Paddle.

w/ Removal of Spray
skirt.
Emptying of water
in the Kayak
Basic use of Edge Control
Forward & Reverse
Sweep Strokes
Efficient Forward &
Reverse Sweep Strokes


Beginnings of
Stern Rudder
Directional
Techniques
Sense of control
Awareness of
surroundings
w/ some Edge Control
Ability to spin the
Kayak on the spot
Stern Rudder
Low Brace Turns
Edging to assist turning
Efficient bow rudder

Dynamic body position
with blade between legs
and hips
Efficient Forward &
Reverse Sweep Strokes


w/ Edge Control
Ability to spin the Kayak
on the spot and on the
move
Page | 59
Beginnings of ‘J’ – ‘J’ –Draw
Draw
 w/ Directional Control
Side Moving
Techniques
Classic Draw

w/ Directional Control
Beginnings of Sculling Draw
Beginnings of Bow Rudder
Draw on the move
Dynamic
Side Moving
Techniques
Hanging Draw
Beginnings of Low
Support and
Recovery
Basic Low Support and
Recovery


Engaging of blade to
upright oneself
Recovery of blade
Rafted ‘X’ Rescue
Rescue,
Support and
Recover
Techniques
Basic High Support and
Recovery


Engaging of blade to
upright oneself
Recovery of blade
‘X’ Rescue
Kayak to Swimmer Rescue

Sculling for support
Efficient High Support and
Recovery
Efficient Low Support and
Recovery
Efficient ‘X’ Rescue
Eskimo Bow Rescue

As Rescuer and Victim
Paddle Rescue

As Rescuer and Victim
Bow carry
Swimmer to Kayak Rescue
Eskimo Bow Rescue
 As victim
Eskimo Roll

C-to-C Roll or
 Sweep Roll
Page | 60
References
Personal skills - 2 STAR." Personal skills - 2 STAR. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Apr. 2012.
http://www.scf.org.sg/Awards/Personal1.html
2. http://paddling.about.com/od/technique/ht/Empty-A-Kayak.htm
3. http://www.kayakpaddling.net/
1.
4.
"2 Krazy Kayakers: Happy Inuit Day!." 2 Krazy Kayakers. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 May
2012. <http://2krazykayakers.blogspot.sg/2010/11/happy-inuit-day.html>.
5.
"Eskimo Boys in Kayak." Old Pictures. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 May 2012.
<http://www.old-picture.com/indians/Eskimo-Boys-in-Kayak.htm>.
6.
Mattos, Bill, and Andy Middleton.Kayaking & canoeing for beginners: a practical
guide to paddling for novices and intermediates. London: Southwater, 2004. Print.
Google Image Result for
http://www.aquamentor.com/images/FD%25203570R.jpg. (n.d.). Google.
Retrieved July 24, 2012, from
http://www.google.com.sg/imgres?um=1&hl=en&safe=off&biw=1366&bih=705
&tbm=isch&tbnid=U2IVusILD16KjM:&imgrefurl=http://www.aquamentor.com/o
nyx-type-iii-pfd-p-474.html&docid=wyrmAKmPsmk_zM&im
Google Image Result for http://ecx.imagesamazon.com/images/I/41v2PACpphL._AA300_.jpg. (n.d.). Google. Retrieved July
24, 2012, from
http://www.google.com.sg/imgres?um=1&hl=en&safe=off&sa=N&biw=1366&bi
h=649&tbm=isch&tbnid=YMczb_P_HEG9FM:&imgrefurl=http://www.amazon.co
m/Absolute-Outdoor-Adult-ComplianceJacket/dp/B003ZIGULW&docid=fmaLpy_89v8twM&imgurl=http://ecx.imagesamazon.com/images/I/41v2PACpphL._AA30
Mattos, B., & Middleton, A. (2004). Kayaking & canoeing for beginners: a
practical guide to paddling for novices and intermediates. London: Southwater.
Hooked on Kayaking - For all your kayak, stand up paddle board and accessory
requirements in New Zealand. (n.d.). Hooked on Kayaking - For all your kayak,
stand up paddle board and accessory requirements in New Zealand. Retrieved
July 24, 2012, from http://hookedonkayaking.co.nz/
bullitt X s. (n.d.). Mega Surfkayaks, Mega performance kayaks.. Retrieved July 24,
2012, from http://www.surfkayaks.com/surf/jester/bullittxs.html
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Page | 61
12. 3 types of PFD:
New PFD Standard for Australian Boaters. (n.d.). Australian Canoeing. Retrieved
July 24, 2012, from http://canoe.org.au/?Page=20336&MenuID=Education%2F99
13. Ford, Kent. Kayaking: whitewater and sea. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 1995.
Print
14. EN standards for PFD:
LifejacketWearit :: Lifejacket Standards. (n.d.). Boat for Life :: Home. Retrieved
July 24, 2012, from http://www.boatforlife.com.au/lifejacketwearit/lifejacketlaw/lifejacket-standards/
15. 2 Krazy Kayakers: Happy Inuit Day!. (n.d.). 2 Krazy Kayakers. Retrieved July 24,
2012, from http://2krazykayakers.blogspot.sg/2010/11/happy-inuit-day.html
16. Eskimo Boys in Kayak. (n.d.). Old Pictures. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from
http://www.old-picture.com/indians/Eskimo-Boys-in-Kayak.htm
17. lakes., countries, r. o., & (France, o. C. (n.d.). Chapter I-The Canoeing and its
History, by: Xabier Sanjuan A. Reocities Archive, rising from the ashes - RIP
Geocities.... Retrieved July 24, 2012, from
http://www.reocities.com/xabier_sanjua
18. Plastic Kayaks , Materials & Manufactoring, FAQ`s, KAYAKS, Rosco Canoes &
Kayaks Australia . (n.d.). Rosco Canoes & Kayaks Australia. Retrieved July 24,
2012, from
http://www.roscocanoes.com.au/FAQ%60s/Materials%20%20Manufactoring/Pla
stic%20Kayaks%20-301.aspx
19. Ravel., P. d. (n.d.). John MacGregor, aka Rob Roy - The first ever recreational
paddler.. Paddle World. Retrieved July 24, 2012, from
http://www.paddleworld.com/mac-gregor.php
20. Sayour, G. (n.d.). Greatest Moments in Olympic Canoe/Kayak History. About.com
Kayak and Canoe Site: Everything You Need to Know About Kayaking & Canoeing..
Retrieved July 24, 2012, from
http://paddling.about.com/od/historyfacts/tp/Greatest-Moments-inOlympic.htm
Page | 62
Additional Notes
Page | 63