DCKC Coaching

Each Year DCKC puts on a range of coached events in multiple disciplines – SUP, Open Canoe, Sea Kayaking and Whitewater Kayaking. We offer introductory courses in the swimming pool, Loch Lomond and Pinkston and aim to provide progressive sessions through the year which could in theory take a keen novice or beginner to the standard of paddling classic whitewater runs or expeditions on Scotland’s wild and remote coastlines. Of course everyone can go at their own pace and pick and choose sessions according to which level or topics are relevant.

All DCKC coaches, leaders and facilitators offer their time free of charge, so coming along has no cost beyond usual trip fees. Please note, beyond basic capsize and wet exit for beginner kayakers, there is no requirement to join any of the sessions. On both Tuesdays and Thursdays there should be the opportunity to join a group who just wants to go for a paddle.

Although there are a multitude of venues used for coaching weekly sessions through the summer are focused around Loch Lomond on Tuesdays for Open Boat, SUP and Sea Kayaking, and Pinkston on Thursdays for River/Whitewater Kayaking.

Sessions are generally informal and take a range of forms. They are not of any predefined length and may be on broad or very specific topics.

Lead session. One person or a number of session leaders will typically provide guidance to participants on one topic.  This can involve theory and/or practical application of a skill or concept. 

Facilitated exchange /peer session. This typically involves one point of contact to oversee the session, which itself will be an exchange of ideas more than being lead.  This exchange could either be from a group of more experienced paddlers sharing their insights, or also from groups members who have their own experiences.  There is no pressure to contribute in these sessions – it’s fine to come along, listen and learn.  This type of session might work well if talking about different ways people pack their kayak, or tie boats on to their roof-rack for example.   This type of session works well with peers practicing rolling or self rescues, giving the opportunity to support each other and exchange ideas.

The program is usually created in 2 month blocks (May/June & July August) and programmed 4 weeks ahead of the block starting and updated through the club calendar, which should include details of the topic, type of session (Lead/ Facilitated) venue, leader/facilitator and the type of boat (SUP / Open Canoe / General purpose Kayak / Sea kayak).