About the Course
What You'll Learn
Sea Kayak Skills
Launching & landing a sea kayak
Forward, reverse & stopping strokes
Sweep strokes & pivot turns
Draw strokes, edging & low brace
Rescue Skills
Safe & controlled capsize, emptying the kayak
Assisted re-entries
Self-rescue
Kayaking Knowledge
Kayaks, safety equipment, paddling gear
Injury Prevention
Navigation & Collision regulations
Kayakers & the environment
Weather, trip planning, using charts
Strength & Flexibility
Learn simple exercises you can do beachside or at home to support you as you enter the world of paddling & an active lifestyle.
Stress Management
Conversations around the stress of life always seem to come up. More productive then venting, these conversations - if they come up - will focus on normalizing what we're all going through while keeping the mood light and sharing strategies like basic mindfulness & grounding skills. The calming & healing effect of the sea make this easier than trying these skills in your usual environments!
What You Need To Know
Before Your Program
No pre-requisites.
No prior experience, pre-reading or other prep is needed.
Adaptive paddling assessments are available (book a Discovery Phone Call)
Consider booking a personal training session for a preparatory fitness routine custom built for you, following an in-depth movement & health assessment.
Private kayak coaching is available prior to course, great for those with some anxiety about paddling!
After Your Program
Continue paddling regularly! This is why SeaStrength Health exists and what makes me different. I want to open the doors to year-round paddling for everyone, so they can enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of kayaking beyond Summer. The group kayaking sessions are an affordable way to get outside and get active year round, and are a great option for anyone with time or financial restrictions that make owning their own kayak a challenge.
💡Make it a fun activity with your partner, friend, parent, or adult child.
💡Date night?
💡Stressful shift? Skip drinks at the bar, come for a paddle instead!
About Group Paddling:
$50, 2 hours, gear included, in Nanaimo area
Includes morning, afternoon & evening sessions
Special events such as sunrise or moonlight paddling, summer solstice paddle, and more.
Book sessions when you want - go kayaking every week, or just for special events - you choose!
Once you're comfortable with paddling and have purchased your own equipment, you can join your local kayaking club or take courses with any of the other reputable businesses on the Island and beyond.
What's Included
2 full days of instruction plus Paddle Canada certification
Kayak & safety gear; dry suit or wet suit
Fully licensed & insured
Next Course Dates
July 19/20, 2025
More courses to be offered over the summer - please reach out to let me know you're interested.
Dates may be added to suit small groups of at least 3 paddlers!
Location
Nanaimo is home to many beautiful beginner friendly ocean and lake waterfronts. Exact locations are chosen based on participant skill levels and weather. You'll receive a message 24-48 hours before your session with the exact location.
Custom courses can be arranged anywhere in Central Vancouver Island and beyond.
Your Instructor
Joani Litchfield
Certified Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Instructor