Kayaking is a water sport involving the use of a kayak, a small, narrow boat that is typically propelled by means of a double-bladed paddle. It can be practiced on various bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and oceans. Kayaks are designed to allow a single person, or in some designs, multiple persons, to sit with their legs extended in front of them, while the paddler uses their arms to steer and propel the boat through the water.
Kayaking can be recreational, where individuals enjoy leisurely outings and explore natural settings, or it can be competitive, involving various racing formats and techniques. It also serves different purposes, including touring, fishing, and white-water paddling, which involves navigating through fast-flowing river currents and rapids.
Kayaking has gained popularity as both a means of enjoying the outdoors and as a way to engage in physical exercise. It requires skills such as balance, coordination, and an understanding of water safety. Overall, kayaking is defined by its focus on movement through water via a kayak and the methods employed to do so.
Adrián Simancas, a 24-year-old kayaker, survived being briefly swallowed by a humpback whale near Punta Arenas, Chile. The whale unexpectedly engulfed Adrián and his kayak but quickly released them unharmed.…