Acknowledgments

Introduction

About this book

Chapter 1: Great Beginnings

Exploring new places

The exploration within

The lure of canoeing

Chapter 2: The Female Canoeist

Modern canoeing for women

Who canoes today?

Types of canoeing

Chapter 3: Getting Started

Common concerns

Friendly clubs

The outfitter option

Instructional schools

Chapter 4: Getting Friendly with Your Canoe

Naming the canoe

Naming the paddle

The impact of boat shape

Transporting the canoe to water

Entering and stabilizing the canoe

Chapter 5: Paddling Straight

The one-stroke strategy

Paddling forward with the J stroke

Solo canoe strategies

Chapter 6: Turning a Canoe

The onside spin with a draw stroke

Onside U-turn while underway

The offside spin

Offside U-turn while underway

Turning a canoe solo

Leaning a canoe

Chapter 7: Your Rescue Responsibilities

Capsize prevention

Active self-rescue in flatwater

Assisting with a flatwater rescue

Group swiftwater rescues

Chapter 8: Getting Equipped

Selecting a paddle

Selecting a life vest

Selecting a canoe

Outfitting your canoe

Your canoeing closet

Safety equipment and accessories

TLC for your gear

Chapter 9: The Canoe Trip

Getting organized

Route-finding on large lakes

A family affair

Safe travel trips on the water

Understanding whitewater rivers

Route-finding in whitewater

Trip essentials

Chapter 10: Tips and More Tips

Conditioning for canoeing

Paddling while pregnant

Canoeing with a physical limitation

Canoeing responsibly

Chapter 11: Resources

Index