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Home >> Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Both originate from ancient craft which were used for hunting, food gathering and travel. A kayak is based on the Inuit boats, you use a double ended paddle and sit in the boats. A canoe is often associated with the North American Indians but in fact has been used by many cultures across the world. It can be paddled kneeling or sitting and a single blade paddle is used. . In the UK we tend to use the word canoeing to cover both – which can be confusing – that’s why you’ll hear us talk about Paddlesport as it covers everything!
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A. If you go to our Find a Club or Centre page that will give you the places closest to where you live. For more information on getting started go to 'OUR SPORT' and 'Getting Started'.
A. Most clubs and centres will say that you have to be able to swim 50mts in light clothing
A. The main benefit is third party liability insurance and licenses to paddle on 4,500km of Britiain's navigations and canals. Other benefits include; a yearly directory, six editions of Canoe Focus magazine and discounts from selected partners. For more information click on the main tab 'MEMBERSHIP'.
A. Before you are properly kitted out a pair of light-weight tracksuit bottoms or leggings and some plimsole-like shoes/trainers (preferably without a big sole) are good to wear on your bottom half. Avoid wearing cotton if possible as it tends to get heavy and cold when wet! (unless its really hot) A light weight, fitted top with a thin cagoule which is lose fitting for good range of movement is also useful for your upper body. You will also need at least a helmet and bouyancy aid and possibly a spray deck which goes on top of your clothing before you grab your boat and paddle and take to the water. If you are a beginner then these should be provided by the club or centre you are at.
A. The best option at the moment is to visit our Coaching pages and go to 'How to become a new BCU coach' and then 'How to find a coaching course' On this page is a link to a list of Level 1 and 2 Training and Assessment Directors from which you can look up a course deliverer in your area to contact and find out what courses are running, where and when.
A. Paddlepower resources can be purchased through the BCU E-shop. Large orders of 50 or more packs can be purchased by completing the resource order form found at the Paddlepower pages in the youth section of the website and posting it, along with a cheque or purchase order, to the Canoe England address.
A. Paddlepower Start is geared towards young people and Paddlesport Start is for adults.
A. Whilst there are no minimum or maximum age limits for Paddlepower it has been specifically designed to be child friendly and it would normally be best practice to use these awards with the younger paddler. It would best suit paddlers aged 14 or under and the Star awards for those aged 16 or over. The coach will need to make the judgement on what award will best suit the paddler based on their needs.
A. It depends on the discipline, the environment, and the regulatory body • BCU Canoe Slalom Competition – Helmets are mandatory • BCU Wild Water Racing Competition – Helmets are mandatory • BCU Canoe Polo Competition - Helmets are mandatory • BCU Freestyle Competition - Helmets are mandatory • BCU Sprint Competition - Helmets are NOT required • BCU Marathon Competition - Helmets are NOT required • Most private or public run Whitewater venues will require participants to wear helmets
A. The BCU considers it best practice to wear helmets on Grade 2 Whitewater and above, and in situations where head injury is considered a risk.
