In April of 2015, CanoeSport Outfitters partnered with the
Indianola YMCA to offer an opportunity for people to try out paddling in the
comforts of a nice warm pool. We
introduced over 30 adults and children to Stand Up Paddle boarding, and
kayaking. Classes were held on the
weekends, and fun was had by all.
We ran a 5 week course of stand up paddle board yoga. This class sold out weeks before it
started. Y members got to practice
their downward dogs while trying to not fall into the water. In the end everyone ended up in the
water at least once.
CSO ran an introduction to stand up paddle boarding class. Members learned about the various types
of boards and paddles, basic terminology, how to stand up on a board, and how
to perform basic strokes. The pool
is a great way to expose people to this fun sport.
We also ran an Introduction to Kayaking class. We had 2 younger members (7 and 8) who
by the end of the class were out maneuvering their mom who was also
participating. We covered paddling
terminology, wet exits, and basic strokes and maneuvering.
On April 25th, the YMCA hosted their annual Healthy Kids
Day. We offered a kids version of
the Stand Up Paddle boarding class.
We had so much interest in
this class, we had kids on the waiting list. This class was a lot of fun. We covered the main skills as in the adult class, but skills
were taught through games and play.
At the end of this special kids session, all we're asking when they
could paddle board in the pool again.
We will be having boats available during some of the Indianola YMCA
Saturday Night Live nights. For
more information about SNL, call the Indianola YMCA at 515-777-7746.
We have 2 upcoming Family Paddling Adventures this summer. One will be held at Lake Ahquabi State
park. This family paddling trip is
designed to introduce families to the sport of paddling. Students will learn about different
types of paddling crafts and which will work for them, how to safely enter and
exit the water, and proper paddling technique. We will also take a tour of the lake. After they have completed the Lake
Ahquabi Adventure, they can sign up for the Red a Rock Adventure. Families will get more practice time on
this larger body of water. We will
explore the caves, and shoreline of Elk Rock State Park.
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| Learning how to kayak on the shores of Lake Red Rock |
Our first session of Paddle and Play at the YMCA was a huge
success. We hope to continue
offering high quality paddling programs in the pool starting this fall. For more information, or to be notified
when the classes become available, please call CSO at 515-961-6117 or the
Indianola YMCA at 515-777-7746.
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