Any tips for rolling a kayak?

Question

I'm a 2 star kayaker, close to 3 star. I recently learnt how to roll and have managed it a few times without the instructor guiding the blade. But in the last kayak sesh, i couldn't roll at all! basically back at square 1!

In your opinion, what are the main things to remember while sitting there underwater?

Answer 1

Practise the roll on dry land until it is fully learned. Many beginners fail to 'set -up' at the start position for each attempt. Find a partner who can roll and then have she/him help you. Be sure you and your boat are a 'snug' fit.

Answer 2

Firstly - confidence is key, have faith in yourself.  

You didn't saw what kinda roll so I'm guessing s***w (just cos I learnt it first)

In which case don't forget to start with your paddles out of the water on one side.  Some people find it helps to think of the action as shovelling muck and throwing it over your shoulder.  That make sense?

* Never forget to bring your head up last!!!!!

Good luck - keep at it and you'll get there in the end!  If you still need help take a look at this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff_te_yjc...

Answer 3

Hold your breath & don't panic.

Answer 4

Congratulations ! Im only a one star ! Having done a rolling course I did much the same as you - that was with Eskimo - srew and parretta rolls ( later being preffered by sea kayakers ( I am told ) The general opinion from both pupils and instructors - you need a couple of courses  (my course was 6 nights over 6 weeks at an hour a time ) to get it - dont be too hard on yourself  - its a bit of an art - which becomes second nature - to me its will be a surprise if it works next time !   Enjoy ---

Pete

Answer 5

make sure you have a straight leading arm, it'll allow you to do a nice wide sweep.

start with your paddle above the water, surface tension helps a lot.

watch the angle of your paddles, make sure your not just slicing through the water.

don't try to bring your head up before the rest of you surfaces. LEAN BACK onto your back deck, even though you may get the impression you'll fall backwards (show off with a stern stall :D ) leaning back reduces your inertia to turn because your closer to the boat.

stretch the paddles back as far as you can aswell, get the benefit of the entire stroke.

flick your hips, not agressively but just level your boat.

everyoe "loses" their roll from time to time. get someone to be ready with a T and keep trying. you'll definately get it again having done it before. remember its technique over strength.

oh ya... trying to get more power by pulling the paddle toward your chest just won't work. keep your arm straigh and sweep it nice and wide.

hope this helps