Episodes

  • How to Get Your Grade 2 Kayak Certificate
    Sep 22 2023

    Do you still need to get your grade 2 kayak certificate? Want to ensure you pass your assessment plus get more out of your course than just a piece of paper?

    In this episode, Sam explains how important this stage is, how his approach has changed over the years, and walks you through a plan for achieving your certificate while gaining the skills you need to stay in your kayak during the Coast to Coast race.

    Book Your Grade 2 Course Here: Grade 2 Certificate Kayak Course

    Contact the Host: Sam Milne,  sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Easy Flatwater Drills to Improve Your Multisport Kayak Skills
    Jun 21 2023

    Do you want to improve your boat handling skills? Want to ensure you have full control over your multisport kayak on your next river run?

    In this episode, you’ll learn essential boat-handling skills that you can practice during your next flatwater training session.

    Show notes: https://canterburykayaking.co.nz/9

    Host: Sam Milne,  sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz

    Support us:  Shop Gear | Book Instruction


    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • Forward Stroke Technique
    Jun 13 2023

    Do you want to learn the multisport forward stroke technique? Want to feel confident you are focussing on the right things?

    In this episode, you’ll learn the details of a good multisport forward stroke technique with a wing paddle plus gain tips on how to improve your own stroke.

    Host: Sam Milne | Show notes: https://canterburykayaking.co.nz/8

    Support us:  Shop Gear | Book Coaching

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Joining a Kayaking Club
    May 31 2023

    In this episode, I discuss the advantages of joining a kayaking club and provide tips on making the most of your club membership.

    I discuss the benefits of joining different types of clubs, including K1, whitewater, multi-sport, and SurfSki clubs and suggests considering joining multiple clubs to access a wide range of opportunities. 

    I talk about the importance of taking advantage of as many paddling sessions as possible, actively engaging with the club community, volunteering for minor club roles, seeking help when needed, and offering assistance to others as you gain experience.

    Key Points:

    • Joining multiple kayaking clubs can provide diverse benefits.
    • K1 clubs are ideal for flat water training and developing your forward stroke technique.
    • Whitewater clubs offer opportunities for river paddling and grade 2 skill development.
    • Multi-sport clubs focus on racing and can provide experience on grade one and grade two water.
    • SurfSki clubs are beneficial for those without access to river kayaking and focus on a similar paddling style as multi-sport racing kayaks.
    • Tips for maximising club membership include actively participating in all paddling sessions suitable to your skill level, engaging with the club community, volunteering for club roles, seeking help when needed, and offering assistance to others.

    Resources:

    • To read the full blog post on this topic, please visit: https://canterburykayaking.co.nz/blogs/posts/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-a-kayaking-club

    Support us:

    Thank you for listening to The Canterbury Kayaking Podcast. Make sure to follow us so you don't miss future episodes. You can support the podcast by purchasing kayaking equipment from Canterbury Kayaking's online store or booking a course with Canterbury Kayaking for personalised coaching from me.

    Host: Sam Milne
    Email: sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz
    Website: https://canterburykayaking.co.nz/











    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • The 5 Basic Skills Every Kayaker Should Learn
    Apr 5 2023

    I know you're excited to start kayaking, but you need to get the basics right first in order to experience long-term success with paddling. This episode will cover the 5 most important skills you need to learn FIRST, including detailed instructions on how to get these skills right.

    Read the full article here: The 5 Basic Skills Every Multisport Kayaker Should Learn First

    In This Episode:

    • Why Getting the Basics Right Is So Important.
    • How to Get Into Your Kayak Without Falling Over.
    • How to Paddle With the Perfect Posture.
    • How to Feather Your Paddle During the Forward Stroke.
    • How to Use Your Rudder Pedals Correctly.
    • What to Do if You Fall Out of Your Kayak.

    Send your feedback and questions to: sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz

    Show More Show Less
    38 mins
  • Setting up Your Kayak and Paddle
    Mar 13 2023

    Are you 100% sure you have your multisport kayak and paddle set up correctly? This episode will explain everything  you need to know about setting up your multisport kayak and wing paddle for comfort and performance.

    Read the full article here: How to Set Up Your Multisport Kayak and Wing Paddle

    In This Episode:

    • Why getting a good kayak and paddle fit is so important
    • Where should your knees be in your kayak? 
    • How far away should your foot pedals be in your kayak?
    • How do you adjust the foot pedals and rudder-lines in your kayak?
    • How should the seat in your multisport kayak fit?
    • How do you select the correct paddle angle?
    • Where should you position your grip on your paddle shaft?
    • What length should your multisport paddle be set to?

    Send your feedback and questions to: sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz

    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • Getting the Most Out of Kayak Lessons
    Mar 7 2023

    Have you just starting your kayak training for the Coast to Coast and are thinking about getting some lessons? This episode will explain everything  you need to know about taking multisport kayaking lessons for the Coast to Coast race.

    Read the full article here: Taking Multisport Kayaking Lessons for the Coast to Coast Race

    In this episode:

    • When Should You Start Taking Kayaking Lessons?
    • When Should You Do Your Grade 2 Certificate Kayaking Course?
    • Is It Worth Taking More Kayaking Lessons After Gaining Your Grade 2 Kayak Certificate?
    • How Many People Are Typically in Group Kayaking Lessons?
    • What Do The Best Kayaking Lessons Include?
    • Why You Really Want to Avoid Bad Kayaking Lessons 
    • How Do You Get the Most Out of Kayak Lessons?
    • Key Points to Remember About Kayaking Lessons
    • Plus Much More!

    Send your feedback and questions to: sam@canterburykayaking.co.nz

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • Choosing a PFD (Lifejacket)
    Feb 28 2023

    Need to get a kayaking PFD (lifejacket) but not sure what type you need or how to choose one? This episode explains everything  you need to know about PFDs for multisport kayaking and the Coast to Coast race.

    Read the full article here: Choosing a PFD (Lifejacket) for Multisport Kayaking

    Comment on our website with your feedback and questions!


    In this episode:

    • Why Is Choosing the Right PFD (Lifejacket) So Important?
    • When Should You Wear a Kayaking PFD?
    • How Are Kayaking PFDs Different to Regular “Lifejackets”?
    • How do You Ensure Your PFD Meets the Coast to Coast Race Rules?
    • How Should a Kayaking PFD Fit?
    • Front-Zip Kayaking PFDs
    • Side-Entry Kayaking PFDs
    • Over-The-Head Kayaking PFDs
    • What Features You Want in a Good Multisport Kayaking PFD?
    • Best Kayaking PFDs (Lifejackets) For the Coast to Coast Race
    • Rasdex Multisporter PFD
    • Day Two Adventure Racer PFD
    • Palm Hydro PFD
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins