TAKE THE PLUNGE

Coming along for the first time can be daunting, but there’s nothing to worry about! Pinkston is a very safe environment to learn and practice kayaking skills. There’s a flat water area to get the basics, some moving water to build up skills and confidence, and when you’re ready, the whitewater course to have fun and develop more.

Before coming along
Before becoming a member, you can come along to 3 of our sessions before deciding if you’d like to join the club. Send us a message on our joining page to let us know you’re coming along, and we’ll email back to confirm and let you know who to ask for when you arrive.

When should you arrive?
Come before the session start time - 6.30-6.45 is ideal. There’s usually people getting ready in the car park. Everyone there should be able to point you in the direction of the right person to welcome you.

Getting your equipment
We can provide you with a wetsuit and cag (a top to wear on top). We’ll find a boat for you, get you a paddle, helmet and your spray deck.

You should bring a towel and shoes you don’t mind getting wet (old trainers do the trick). In the winter, a flask with a hot drink is also advised!

Getting on the water
First thing to remember is that the club is run by volunteers, we’re not a commercial coaching school. This means you may be looked after by a few different people during your session, allowing volunteer coaches to have some play time on the water too. You might be part of a group or one-to-one, depending on who else books on that day.

We’ll get you on the flat water and start teaching some basic skills on how to control your boat and move around. We’re lucky to have one of the best coaches in the country in the club, meaning whoever is looking after you has been coached on teaching the fundamental skills that will set you up for progression.

Complete beginners will get the best experience by signing up for Pinkston’s beginner whitewater courses. These are bookable directly on their website.