Pool Training

Pool training takes place in the swimming pool at Pickaquoy Leisure Centre.

It is open to adults and youngsters who attend secondary school.  Cost is £8 and £6 payable weekly.  Younger children can also take part but must be accompanied by a responsible older person.  Participants must be able to swim 25 metres, be comfortable in the deep end and obey normal Kirkwall Swimming Pool rules.  All levels from complete beginner to experienced kayaker are welcome.

Kayaks, paddles and spraydecks will be provided.  Dress is your normal swimming costume.

Kirkwall Kayak Club has ten qualified instructors and at least four will be instructing at each session.  During these sessions you will learn and practise all the skills and technique required to paddle safely and efficiently on the open sea but in the warmth, convenience and safety of the swimming pool.

At pool training you will learn all the paddle strokes, including support strokes and great emphasis is put on safety procedures.  You will learn how to capsize and exit safely, how to rescue capsized paddlers and practise being rescued yourself.  Once you are reasonably competent at all this, you will then learn to roll.

Pool training is great fun but with a serious purpose.  To take part, just turn up on the night with your swimming gear and you will be made very welcome.

Click here to open a very good animated tutorial on kayaking from KayakPaddling.net. 

On the opening page, click on the UK flag and off you go.....

Rolling with Sticks - Greenland rolling video