Kent Ford, a kayaking instructor and 2-time world-champion paddler, aims to give readers a solid foundation on which to build their kayaking skills. The book covers all the basics beginners need to get started, including information on determining kayaking preference, choosing proper equipment and clothing, 7 fundamental kayaking strokes and getting in shape for kayaking. The book features clear and accurate instruction and full-colour photographs and instructions throughout for demonstrating proper technique. The book also provides detailed information on how to kayak correctly and safely. Readers interested in whitewater kayaking will learn how to handle rocks, eddies, waves and holes; how to perform whitewater manoeuvers; and how to avoid or deal with river hazards. For those who want to try sea kayaking, the book explains how to recover from a capsize, how to deal with the wind and weather, how to use the tides and current, and how to plan an easy day trip. Readers can also read about 64 of the best kayaking destinations in the United States, Mexico, Canada, England and Scotland, continental Europe and Australia, plus 9 of the author's favourite rivers.