The PaddlerUK magazine September 2015 issue 4 | Page 62

PADDLERUK 62

For your trip you
might want to experience both tandem
paddling and soloing and also different types of
blades. I love using a deep water blade and
knifing the blade back through the water for
each stroke. Building time for these elements in
your trip will help make you a better paddler and coach, if you go that route, and ensure each micro adventure
or journey is a more rounded experience.
As part of this article I have included some top
tips and hints for simple things to improve your
canoe and camping trip. You can see a full kit list
on the Canoe Trail website at
www.canoetrail.co.uk

Top tip:

In Scotland the river access rules are different
but equally we don’t want to ruffle feathers
wherever we are paddling. I have also included
three golden rules for trying to reduce our
impact on the environment and ensuring safe
and friendly trips are organised and enjoyed.
Finally there are some suggestions for places to
try out your canoe and camping skills. Obviously
if you wish to substitute a sea kayak or touring
kayak then many of the same principles apply.

Develop your paddling and adventure skills – try poling,
lining and tracking and sailing as part of your adventure. Camp skills
such as fire lighting and shelter building are also great fun.
Paddle full – paddle your boat fully laden in similar conditions prior
to experiencing it during a bigger trip. It does handle differently so
being able to pick your line or knowing your limitations can be
important.

Richard is a human powered adventurer and paddler www.richadventure.com
who has completed over 7,800 miles of adventures by kayak, canoe, ski and
bike. He runs www.canoetrail.co.uk with his wife Ashley and co founded
www.inspiredlife.org which inspires young people and communities. He is a
motivational speaker drawing on his stories from adventure, in corporate life
and managing the Ghana Ski Team at the Vancouver Winter Olympics.
Richard’s adventures test equipment in the harshest conditions and he is proud
to be supported by: Paramo Clothing,, Valley Sea Kayaks, Up North Adventures,
www.bambooclothing.co.uk , Leatherman tools, Scott Skis, Mountain Fuels,
Canadian Affair (airlines), Aquabound Paddles, Reed Chillcheater, Surly Fat
Bikes, USE Exposure Lights, Garmin GPS systems, Sealine Drybags. Richard and
Ash are members of Viking Kayak Club based in Bedford.

Top tip:

Treat yourself – find the
simple treats that really ‘float
your boat’, from malt loaf to
campfire popcorn, Green and
Blacks chocolate or a simple
dram of single malt. Embrace
the concept of a reward strategy.

Ask the locals – hire kit,
book guides and speak to the
locals if your are not sure of river
conditions or need help. It
removes a large part of the
stress.