Learning how to canoe and kayak is based on three points:
Technique - Safety - Environment

The paddle colours - yellow, green, blue, red and black - indicate your progress by certifying your level, degree of independence and ability to understand and respect the natural and human environment.

> Prerequisites
- You must know how to swim
- There is no minimum age but the necessary motor skills are acquired at the age of around 10.
- You must not have a medical condition that would prevent you from practicing a sport.

> Behaviour to follow
- never navigate alone
- inform a third-party about the planned route and how long your trip will last
- inquire about difficulties and make sure you have the necessary skills and fitness level.
- Wear a life jacket.

Be informed: to fully enjoy your day, ask members of the French Canoeing and Kayaking Federation (FFCK) for advice on the itinerary, gear used and possibility of being accompanied by somebody who is qualified to do so. Be prepared: be fit, warm up and pace yourself. Bring at least one bottle of water and a few granola bars.
Se préparer : Soyez en forme, échauffez-vous et dosez vos efforts. Emportez toujours au moins une bouteille d'eau et quelques barres de céréales
Equip yourself:
- Make sure your boat is right for your technical level, size and weight. It must have foot straps, portage handles and be unsinkable.
- Always wear a helmet and life jacket in the river. They must be adjusted to fit you and comply with European standards. Wear light, closed, laceless shoes.
- Wear clothes suitable for the activity, water temperature and weather conditions (windbreaker, wetsuit).