Introduction to Skills Development Courses
KJO skills development courses are all about establishing training opportunities that provide a route for your progression. Our proven formula is simple:
- Provide the best coaches – a team who through the KJO coach training scheme constantly evolve, improve, develop and deliver in the dynamic coaching style utilised on all KJO courses. You can be sure you will receive cutting edge and dynamic coaching that is personalised to your requirements and is delivered in a way that grows confidence through knowledge and positive outcomes.
- Provide the best course framework so that you go away inspired and fuelled with the right knowledge and skills to progress as easily and quickly as possible. You can be sure KJO’s courses use the latest thinking and each and every programme has been established through experience and the very best practice drawn from many sports.
- Use the best sites – sites where considered learning outcomes can be ensured. If we get the ideal learning environment the learning is easy.
What opportunities do Skills Development Courses have to offer?
We recognize that just as each individual who comes to us for coaching is unique, the courses we provide should also be unique. That’s why we work within a framework rather than to a fixed program. We will work with you to set the pace you like, and focus on the skills that will allow you to get the most fun out of this incredible sport. Our skill development courses have been specifically developed to:
- Identify your training needs and deliver a tailored learning experience.
- Motivate and encourage you to make the most of your time on the water.
- Help you to reflect upon your performance and identify your achievements.
- Improve your ability to understand what and how you are learning, and to review, plan and take responsibility for your own on going development.
- Provide you evidence of your skills and achievements.
- Deliver a course to meet your expectations.
What does paddle sport have to offer?
Canoeing and kayaking is almost as old as mankind itself, so it’s not surprising that many different ways to enjoy the activity have emerged. There is a remarkably varied range of activities, from individual and team competition to journeys of exploration. Canoes and kayaks can be used to paddle down mountain streams, crash through fierce white water, roll across ocean waves or explore wild and remote places. So whether you’re young, old, adrenaline driven or not, paddle sport is bound to have something to offer you.
How do I get involved with the paddle sport community?
Paddlesport is growing rapidly by providing unforgettable experiences for people from all walks of life. There are estimated to be 3.7 million paddlers in the U.K partaking in various paddlesport disciplines. There are lots of clubs and web forums to meet other paddlers, organise trips and form friendships. The BCU provide a club search to get you started click here for your local club search.
What skills do I need to learn?
With good coaching it’s easy to learn the fundamentals of kayak and canoe control and you don’t need to have bionic arms to do it. Powering the boat relies more on the torso, legs, and good technique than arm muscles alone. An intro class will familiarize you with the equipment and teach you the necessary strokes to control your boat. After a few hours on the water, you’ll feel stable and confident your new environment. Your progression rate in paddlesport greatly depends on previous experience with similar sports (transferable skills) and the amount of time you have to practice. On average it would take around eighteen months to two years to become intermediate.
What do I do next and how to get these skills?
Once you have decided to progress in your new sport its worth giving your future development some thought. Where do you want to be one year from today? How will you get there? Taking coaching is a great way to get off to a flying start. This can initially provide a solid foundation from which to build your skills. Many people choose to use continued coaching services to assist their personal development pathway. KJO’s comprehensive range of coaching courses provide the best opportunities to learn the necessary skills to take up your next challenge, to push your performance plateau or deal with un-fore seen hurdles in your development. Check out our skills courses then use our online booking service or contact our customer service desk for more advice on a course to suit your requirements.
I'm already a paddler, but want to explore and further improve my performance?
Whatever your performance requirement KJO can draw on our experience and provide a program to suit your requirements. The diversity of what we can offer is immense.
Choose from our skills development range or check out our performance development section for more.
Still not sure? Complete our pre-course expectation form and one of our coaching team will get back to you with the answers you require – no pressure to buy just good honest advice.
Do you provide safety and rescue skills?
Safety and rescue skills are vital to all river users. All our courses provide essential safety and awareness skill needed for the environment you intend to paddle. An awareness of hazards and a 'paddling safe' approach will hopefully allow us to enjoy our river time without incident. KJO also provide a selection of safety and rescue specific courses that ensure you have the skills and peace of mind that you can deal with any unforeseen situations.
Can I get national qualifications?
We provide a comprehensive range of British Canoe Union (BCU) Awards. These start at 1 Star Awards Introduction paddlesport to 5 Star for specialised disciplines in advanced environments such as expeditions and white water paddling.




