We run fun, friendly sessions for adults who are taking their first paddle strokes or who have enjoyed kayaking or canoeing on holiday and want to try more and develop new skills.

There is usually a waiting list for this course. To join the waiting list, email with the subject ‘Adult Beginners’.

Adult courses are based around the British Canoeing syllabus.

The course covers:

• launching and getting out of your boat safely
• paddling techniques to control your boat
• paddle a straight line, turning, stopping, manoeuvring, avoiding capsizes, what to do if you do capsize
• how to help other paddlers and keep safe
• trip safety and equipment advice.

All you need to get started in paddle sports to a standard where you can confidently go on flat water trips and learn the basic skills needed to progress to moving water if you want to.

We also run social paddling sessions in sheltered water environments aimed at beginner paddlers – but all are welcome – and there are occasional pool sessions to boost your confidence in a kayak for those more dynamic paddle strokes.

These session are to support paddlers with more competent paddling strokes and boat control. It encourages individual practice and development with some formal coaching. Sessions start with some free practice time to warm up, practice some strokes or have a chat. Then for about 30 mins the session leader will run an activity be based on stroke development, rescues, rolling practice but could involve polo practice or some games.

The group consists of people with a wide range of paddling experience and ability. It is desirable that paddlers have their own equipment and transport to get it to the pool. However we have a flexible view on this so please discuss your experience with us as we don’t like to turn anyone away.  If you have lots of experience hopefully you will be able to pass some of this on, as this is the main way we develop paddling skills in the group.

The club has only limited equipment of its own so it is important that each person brings a boat, paddle and spraydeck each week. If you are short of any item of equipment please discuss it with us as we have access to various spare items, including boats, so a short term loan is a possibility.

To paddle at Green Park pool with Chiltern Canoe Club you will need:

• Boat, Paddle, Spraydeck
• Roof rack and transport to pool
• To have paid pool fees
• To be able to swim two lengths of the pool
• To bring some enthusiasm and humour
• Be a member of CCC and BC

These sessions take place Sunday mornings from 8am to 9am at Green Park Activity Centre.