Paddle and Play at the YMCA!

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.

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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