Kayaking Lesson
This weekend I took a beginner kayaking course in Vancouver, off Jericho Beach not far from our home. Having kayaked in my (much) younger years, I thought it would be interesting to try it again with more current equipment. The weekend course would run 9AM to 4PM both days.
Not surprising, the other students were younger than I. The weather was likely as good as it could be... light winds, accented with some sun and clouds. We did some training and initiation on the beach before heading out into the Burrard Inlet.
Attire was a swim suit, warm synthetic sweater, wet suit, wind breaker, skirt (prevents the water from entering the cockpit) and head gear. And a PFD, of course, as required by law. Very bulky but all necessary.
Once out on the water it took me some time to get used to the stability (or lack of it) of the kayak. But more importantly, it was tremedously uncomfortable to sit in it. We were instructed to sit with our backs resting on the backrest but not to lean on it. Balance and keeping your head straight and inline are critical. "The kayak goes where your head goes".
I could feel the strain on my core muscles and that soon transferred to back pain. I left the course feeling very tired and discouraged at the end of the day. I felt I could not learn, practice and concentrate while being so uncomfortable.
The next morning I was well rested and no significantly sore muscles. However, I did not relish the thought of another day of misery. Therefore, I notified the kayaking center I would not participate in the second day. I am still very discouraged but hope to give it a second try someday.
