Canoeing can be very simple and easy if people just follow the essential instructions that the activity requires. Aside from this, they would need to consistently practice so they improve their canoeing skills. The more frequently one canoes, the more chances he has to learn new techniques and overcome new challenges.


The most common mistake that people make in canoeing is that they rush into things. Even if they know that they are unaware of the basics of canoeing, they still head straight for the water. While many people easily pick up the skill, there is still risk involved with being on the water in a canoe that is not under control. It is best to at least learn the basics while still on dry land.


One should always make it a point to place their grip outside the gunwale when paddling. A common canoeing mistake is to allow the paddle grip to go inside the gunwale of the canoe. This places unnecessary stress upon the muscles and can lead to stiffness and soreness. It might even cause one to give up canoeing for no reason because if a proper grip is maintained, the soreness can be averted.


In addition to that, when changing direction, one should draw the stern downstream. They should not sweep the bow towards the current for this is not the proper way. Moreover, one should not paddle in a manner that would stop the momentum of the canoe. Also, it is very important to use paddles of the proper length as using paddles that are too short will cause all kinds of difficulties.


A few of the mistakes that people should avoid when canoeing include: using blades in the wrong way, improper holding of the paddle and continuously changing paddling sides. These are common mistakes that one can learn to avoid with proper instruction in the sport.


This biggest mistake to make in canoeing is to give up. Some might give up because improper technique caused muscle soreness and others might give up because they found it too difficult to steer the canoe. The only way to learn to canoe properly is through practice, and it isn't that hard to do, it is just a matter of learning proper technique and avoiding the common mistakes that beginners make.


Most importantly, safety must always be taken into consideration, even when one reaches the expert level. One never becomes so good that life jackets can be avoided. Always use common sense and take safety precautions because the unexpected will happen sooner or later and it is better to be prepared rather than sorry.


Most beginners to canoeing do make mistakes and no one is going to demand perfection. But avoiding mistakes in technique can prevent muscle soreness and avoiding paddling mistakes can avoid an out of control canoe, so it is always a good idea to lean proper canoeing.