Five Rivers MetroParks paddlesports programs
Try Paddlesports. Try a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or canoe. An overview of the boat will be given, and, depending on demand, participants can try different styles of boats. This is a great way to learn about the sport in a controlled and safe environment. All equipment is provided for this free drop-in program. Information: 937-277-4374.
* June 25: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Eastwood MetroPark Blue Lake
* July 2: 4-7 p.m., Eastwood MetroPark Lagoon
Intro to Paddlesports. The first step in the paddlesports progression of classes, participants will learn about different types of kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. Other topics covered include equipment, trip planning, safety and where to go paddling. This program is a prerequisite for Kayaking Basics, SUP Basics and Canoeing Basics. Registration is required. For information or to register, call 937-277-4374.
* Aug. 14, 6-8:30 p.m., Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark Auditorium, $5
Also
Whitewater Warehouse, 104 Valley St., offers a variety of kayaking programs, including an upcoming Whitewater Thursday event on May 22 at 5:30 p.m. For information on this and other Whitewater Warehouse programs visit www.paddlesportsdayton.com or call 937-222-7020.
Great Miami Outfitters, 25 E. Linden Ave., offers several kayaking classes and offers a “try before you buy” program. The Miamisburg outfitters also sponsor a Saturday Morning Paddle Float on the Great Miami River. For more information, visit www.greatmiamioutfitters.com or call 937-847-8787.
Lamar Jackson spent as much time in the water as he did in his kayak on his first whitewater trip, but he was hooked.
“I had no idea what I was getting into that first time out,” Jackson said. “I didn’t realize the discipline and skill that it required.”
He does now. The Loveland kayaking enthusiast was on the water at the opening of the Mad River Run, a new fast water river recreation feature at Eastwood MetroPark. With Mad River Run and the ECO Sports Corridor, in Springfield, you don’t need to travel far to try your hand at recreational whitewater kayaking.
But you don’t need whitewater, giant waves or swirling whirlpools to have a good time kayaking.
“Kayaking is not limited by height, weight or age,” Jackson said. “And it definitely doesn’t need to be intimidating.”
Both Jackson’s 5-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter, in fact, are avid kayakers.
“Water is the ultimate equalizer,” said Erik Dahlstrom, Five Rivers MetroParks outdoor recreation coordinator and paddling expert. “No matter what your ability, more than likely, there is a venue for you.”
Why kayaking?
From torching calories to getting a good cardio workout, there are numerous health benefits to kayaking. Kayakers can expect improved muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness over time and, because it is a low-impact activity, there is little wear and tear on the joints.
More and more people are realizing the health benefits of kayaking,” said Amy Dingle, Five Rivers MetroParks outdoor recreation manager and former Olympic team kayaker. “And they are also enjoying the relaxation benefits of the sport.”
Peaceful, calm waterways and a gentle breeze can make for an idyllic afternoon.
“It’s a great way to connect with nature,” Dahlstrom said. “There’s something about the grace and flow as you’re gliding across the water that is just incredible.”
Rhett Rohrer, of RiversEdge Outfitters in Waynesville, repeatedly hears his customers tout the benefits of kayaking. Kayaks have a lower profile than canoes and are less likely to tip over. They also ride higher in the water than canoes, making them easier to navigate through shallow areas. A single-person kayak also eliminates the need to coordinate your efforts with another paddler. You can go at your pace.
“Kayaking is intuitively easier than some other paddlesports,” Rohrer said. “We have kids out here, and we have couples in their 60s who have never kayaked before, and on a calm river, on a summer day, they do fine.”
RiversEdge started with just a single kayak a few decades ago, but now has 100.
“Canoeing seems to be holding steady, but kayaking is definitely growing in popularity,” he said.
Dingle said kayaking registrations now surpass other large watercraft registrations in Ohio.
And while it can be a solo venture, it is also an ideal activity to do with family and friends.
“Sharing it with other people is one of the things I enjoy most about kayaking,” Dahlstrom said. “The bonds that come with this sport are one of the things I treasure most.”
Getting started
Dahlstrom says the safest way to get started kayaking is by taking a class.
Five Rivers MetroParks offers a variety of classes from Intro to Paddlesports to Swiftwater Rescue for Paddlers.
“In a class, you to have someone help you figure out the strokes and learn safety information,” Dahlstrom said.
Some classes are offered in pools or calm lakes, which helps with boat stability.
Local outfitters, like Whitewater Warehouse, in Dayton, and Great Miami Outfitters, Miamisburg, also offer a variety of classes and sponsor events for rookie and veteran kayakers alike. Great Miami Outfitters offers its Quick Start to Kayaking Class at both the Miamisburg Sycamore Aquatic Center as well as Eastwood MetroPark.
Beginners can try kayaking with little initial investment as many outfitters and liveries have kayaks available to rent. And if you decide you want to buy your own, you can take one or more out for a ride.
“You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it out for a test drive,” Jackson said with a smile. “A knowledgeable retailer can help you find the kayak that is right for you.”
Jackson spends about two-thirds of his summer kayaking and he wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I absolutely love being in the water — the sense of control you can have in an uncontrollable situation — it’s the best thing ever,” he said. “I feel like I was meant to be upside down and in the air in a kayak.”
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