MN ACA Course Summer 2016

The summer kayaking circuit kicked off with our Minnesota destination this last May. This was the kayaking community that I learned to paddle in, so they have a special place in my heart. I'm sure you've heard the expression "MN nice" . . . and that couldn't be farther from the truth. I love coming back to this area to share my passion, help paddlers improve and meet new people in the paddling community.

The circuit started off with an intensive 5-day American Canoe Association (ACA) L1-4 Kayak Instructor Training and Certification. This course certifies paddlers to teach using the ACA curriculum and helps develop them into better teachers and paddlers. The days are long (10 hour days) and the expectations are set high . . . but, in the end everyone walks away as a better leader, instructor and kayaker.

This course gives opportunities for the students to practice teaching topics related to kayaking. "Practice makes perfect" we always say. We also spend tons of time improving the students "demonstration quality" of their kayaking skills and techniques so when they teach, their students clearly see what is important and safe in each stroke, skill and technique. Last, but not least, the ACA instructor candidates walk away with an improvement to their own paddling skills. Depending on the level of certification they are going for, they are required to execute moves cleanly. So we spend a lot of time brushing up on improving their personal paddling techniques and style and try to get away from any bad habits.

I offer these courses throughout the United States. If you are interested in hosting a course, we need a minimum of 4 instructor candidates. Please contact me if interested.