How to Roll a kayak

Learn to ROLL by doing exercises in the video!

https://youtu.be/NjQHZJ5AkDY

What is it?

It is the most common version of the Roll that allows you to roll your kayak upright after flipping upisde down just by yourself. It provides safety thanks to leaned forward position which keeps you protected through your helment and life jacket. However at the same time getting into that folded position takes time and exposure to potential rocks while it can also be hard on your shoulders if not done properly. Yet it still remains the safest and most basic technique for learning to roll as after coming up you are in forward position and ready to take action.

Step by Step

1. Fold yourself to the side and forward, paddle alongside the boat. Leading blade laying flat on the surface of the water by rolling your wrists forwards. Set the second hand close to the kayak with the elbow locked on the side of the boat. The head should be folded downwards as close to the paddle as your mobility allows.
2. Flip upside down, whilst maintaining the same position.
3. Make a wide sweep stroke with your leading blade. Move your body to keep the blade on the surface of the water until it is a close to right angle (90º) with your boat as possible.
4. Once your blade is perpendicular to the boat, pull downwards on the blade whilst you flick your hips and knees hard to right the boat. At the same time, keep your head under the surface.
5. Bring the boat to almost a flat position while still keeping your head low and in the water for as long as possible.
6. Finish by bringing your body over the boat and coming back to a neutral balanced position to finish the move.

Get your own copy of Freestyle Unlocked

Freestyle Unlocked is first book of the series. For this and more content buy your own copy of the book where you will find:

• Self-guided training tools that will teach you how to plan your sessions
• Insights on foundation skills
• Break down for preparation, initiation, execution and landing photos crossed with 3b concept of blade, body and the boat
• Most common mistakes and their solutions
• Top tips to take your trick to the next level!

You can buy the book at:

www.kayakingunlocked.com

If you seek more how to videos see www.loveitliveit.co.uk/Unlocked/Freestyle