Lake Canoe Skills Introduction Solo

Aim

To Introduction the novice paddler to paddling on shelter calm waters. To Introduction basic land and water rescue techniques.

Upon Successful Completion

The successful INTRODUCTION TO LAKE SOLO candidate is considered a beginner solo lake canoeist with basic knowledge of self-rescue skills and land-based rescues. Rescue techniques at this level are discussed and if time and opportunity allows will be practiced. The skills and knowledge gained at this level form the foundation necessary for confident and safe travel on calm sheltered paddling environments.

Teach the following courses:
Not Applicable

Assist and/or Apprentice (Mentorship) on the following courses:
Not Applicable

Prerequisites
None or Canoeing Basics

Course Length
One (1) day minimum

If Candidates come into this program with Lake Tandem Skills Courses then the time for these courses can be reduce due to the duplicate theory material and paddling skill.

Class Ratio
1 Instructor : 6 Participants

Location
Instructor can tailor a course to best fit the student's need.

Conditions

No to limited wind conditions.

Program Overview
SAFETY & RESCUE

Theory

  Water/Wind/Waves/Weather (concerns and hazards)

  Cold Water Concerns (Hypothermia)

  Personal Preparation (clothing, water, snacks, medication, etc.)

  PC PFD Policy: Always Wear It.

  Safe Canoe Procedures

Practical (practice if time permits)

  See Introduction to Tandem

  Canoe Tows, Empty Swamped Canoe on Shore/Dock

  Canoe over Canoe

  Rafting Rescues

  Solo Position and Trim

  Throw Bag (use and attachment)

PADDLING SKILLS

General

  MITH as seen in Introduction to Lake Tandem

  Canoe Lift and Carry (basic & assisted)

  Solo Launch and Removal (shore and dock)

  Canoe Tilts and J-Lean

Strokes

  Forward

  Reverse

  C Stroke

  Check (stop)

  Draw (above water recovery)

  Pry or Push Away

  J Stroke or Rudder

  Low Brace

Optional Strokes

  Forward Sweep

  Reverse Sweep

  Box Stroke

Manoeuvres:

  Paddling in a Circle (small to large)

  Forward Straight Line Paddling

  Backing Up

  Turns, Inside & outside

  Docking

  Stopping

  Sideslip

KNOWLEDGE
Solo Canoe (designs, features, etc.)
Paddle (designs, characteristics, etc.)
Personal and Group Gear for a Day Trip (including waterproofing)
Choosing a Safe Environment

Day Trip Planning and Recap:
Paddling in a Group (lead and sweep)
Expanding Skills and Knowledge
Course Limitations
Further Instruction
Canoeing Resources
Local Paddling Clubs or Groups
Paddling Etiquette (on and off water)
Leave No Trace (in relationship to day paddling)
Bill Mason's influence on solo paddling
Canoe Tour

Instructors
The following instructors are accredited to offer this course:
Lake Canoe Instructor Solo
Lake Canoe Instructor Intermediate Solo
Lake Canoe Instructor Advanced Solo
Lake Canoe Instructor Trainer Solo
Lake Canoe Instructor Trainer Intermediate Solo
Lake Canoe Instructor Trainer Advanced Solo


Assessment

Activities focus on safety and comfortable paddling along a calm shoreline. While there is a great deal to learn at this level, activity should concentrate on progress and an awareness of the need for future learning. Paddlers should leave the course encouraged to continue their learning and aware of their individual limitations.