Class Information:

Classes are in three-hour blocks each for a total of 9 hours of instruction. Register for all three classes at the same level. Students in the class will stay together as a group and will have a different instructor for each session. This allows students to experience a variety of learning tips from instructors. Special topics classes are also offered this year.

Skill Levels:

Level 1: An introduction to FreeStyle and a Flatwater skills review. Recommended for paddlers who have never tried FreeStyle paddling. Even for experienced paddlers, efficient FreeStyle maneuvers begin with technically precise forward, reverse, correction, and/or sweep strokes. Learn FS concepts and terminology, and fine tune your existing skills, A solid foundation for FS paddling and you will begin your first FS maneuvers.

Level 2: Should be familiar with what FS paddling is supposed to be. May have seen FS demos or even have attempted some maneuvers. Basic Flatwater strokes are reviewed and FS forward maneuvers (Axle, Post, Wedge, Christie) are taught.

Level 3: Have had previous FS instruction; should be familiar with terminology and FS forward maneuvers. Review various reverse strokes; learn FS Reverse maneuvers.

Level 4: Review forward and reverse FS maneuvers; review cross bow skills. Learn FS cross maneuvers, such as the Cross Axle, Cross Christie, Cross Post, and Cross Wedge.

Level 5: Should be advanced in FS paddling and be well versed in forward, reverse, and cross FS maneuvers. Advance to learning FS cross reverse maneuvers.

Putting It All Together: For advanced students who want to refine skills and better understand and work on linkages. May include music selection, fine tuning skills, and how to choreograph for those who are interested in using music. Students may bring a 3-4 minute tape of music for development into a routine. Or come to learn linking maneuvers and fine tune skills without music.

Special Topics:

Kids Class: Students will learn boat control and water safety, basic srokes, and or freestyle maneuvers based on their skill level, interspersed with fun activities.

Soloing a Tandem: Paddling solo in a tandem boat. Learn Canadian style paddling for efficient control of big boats as a solo paddler.

Instructor Updates: Offered in both canoe and kayak through Essentials--one day, Friday or Saturday. Also Canoe Camping Endorsement (one day) and River Canoe Trip Leading Assessment Training (one day), RC Trip Leading Assessment Examination (one day) available.

Contact Bob or Elaine with any questions that you may have about what level to sign up for or course description, Update, or Endorsement clarifications.

Note: All folks are welcome, even if you just want to come for the weekend and paddle with old friends!