In a nutshell
People of all ages sitting in boats, paddle in hand, surrounded by water, hoping not to get wet!

Tell me more!
Participants, also known as paddlers, can enjoy these sports as they are accessible to all – you can choose to indulge in a peaceful paddle or be adventurous and experience a white knuckle ride in grade 6 white water rapids although you may want to avoid this on your first trip out! The great thing about this various levels involved in this sport means age is no barrier; whether trying it out on a one-to-one basis or introducing the whole family. Be prepared that your kids may be far better co-ordinated than you are!  

The stuff you need
There is no need to buy any equipment when you are first start as any affiliated club or approved centre will provide you with the basics which may include a personal floating device (looks a bit like a life jacket and sorry girls, you will look big in this!), boat, paddle, spray deck (elasticated skirt that prevents water entering the kayak and keeps your legs dry)) and helmet. As you progress, you may wish to splash the cash (bad paddler pun!) on your own equipment which also extends to specialist clothing and shoes.

Cool things you can do
There are a vast array of activities that are open to all ages and abilities, the key is finding which one suits you the best. Start off with paddle-ability, open canoeing, touring and recreation or marathon racing, these are excellent for beginners of all abilities and fitness levels. As your skill levels and confidence increase, you might like to move onto more adventurous forms such as sprint racing, wild water racing, freestyle kayaking, sea kayaking and white water kayaking – your courage is the only limit to the water based adrenaline thrills you can enjoy!

Images courtesy of bcu.org.uk

Read this precautionary money saving tale…! 
http://www.paddling.net/articles/story76.html

Think your canoe has no brakes? Think again!