Aim
To introduce paddlers to the Big Canoe, specifically to the middle and bow positions. No prior experience is required.

• To introduce the basic strokes to safely propel the canoe forward and stop, stationary turn and turn under power, and to move the canoe sideways (sideward displacement).
• Participants will rotate through the middle, and bow position in a Big Canoe with a Big Canoe Instructor or an Intermediate or Advanced Big Canoe Paddler or an Intermediate or Advanced Big Canoe Paddler Candidate in the stern.

Upon Successful Completion
The Big Canoe Skills Introduction is certified to:

Teach the following courses:
Not Applicable

Assist and/or Apprentice (Mentorship) on the following courses:
Not Applicable

Prerequisites
No prior experience required

Course Length
6 hours (depending on number of participants)

• Please add 1 hour if including optional strokes and manoeuvres (see optional strokes as well as optional manoeuvres

Class Ratio
1 Instructor : 12 Participants

Location
Pond or Lake or Ocean or River

• Distance from shore: no further from shore that the group (weakest swimmer) is comfortable swimming, or have enough canoes for an easy rescue (3 canoes) or have a safety boat

Conditions

• Ocean (very sheltered, current no faster than walking speed, with little or no wind)
• River (no hazards, current no faster than walking speed)

Program Overview
Upon completion of this course:

• Participants will have a general understanding of how to propel a big canoe under the direction of the Instructor or an Intermediate or Advanced Big Canoe Paddler.
• Understand the stability of the canoe and the effects of movement within the canoe.
• Understand and the necessary paddle strokes, manoeuvres and theory as set out by this course.