The middle of the boat tends to be the best place to sit and balance the boat. But play around with it: sit in different places in the boat and see how it responds with not only you, but with someone else in the boat as well. Knowing the boat's balance will help you position yourself right and stop you falling out!

Begin with small, quick strokes to get the boat moving. Once you feel comfortable and have control, make your strokes larger to build up the speed and power. As a beginner, take the time to explore what the different strokes do. 

Once the paddle is behind you, it's no longer moving you forward but it can help point the boat in the direction you want to go. Like a sailboat, your paddle at the back of the boat acts as a rudder. Play around with this stroke while your speed is slow and fast. Build confidence as this is important to learn.

Believe it or not, paddling and the control comes from the core as well as your arms. Keeping your posture upright and your core tight while you paddle will generate the most power in your strokes and move the effort from your arms to your centre. 

Once the boat is moving, let it go with the flow. Frantic paddling will just lead to you becoming exhausted. Relax and enjoy the movement of the canoe through the water, take in the sights and breathe in the fresh air. 

Know where you're going, have a plan and a back-up plan. Navigation on the water in a canoe is important to learn. To understand the rivers, lake trails and canal routes, you need to know the limits of what you're comfortable paddling. 

As a beginner you may chose to rent a canoe or paddle from a local company or club to begin with. But if you have become hooked, it is time to invest in your own. Before you take your canoe onto the water, make sure it is paddling-ready and all maintenance is up to date. 

This is an essential piece of gear for paddling a canoe. Don't forget it! Buoyancy aids are important as they will keep you afloat if you were to fall in and become seperated from the canoe. From children, to adults, even pets! There is a buoyancy aid suited to everyone. 

It's rare you won't need something on your head while canoeing. A wide-brimmed hat or peaked cap on sunny days, a beanie in the colder months - and for those who advance to white water, you'll need a helmet to protect your head in case you fall out the boat. 

Before you get on the water you should do a check of your boat and paddle. Make sure that they are "water ready". You want to look out for holes, deep scratches and general wear and tear. Make any repairs before you get on the water and don't chance it. 

While you may plan for a gentle paddle on flat water, there is still a chance you might fall in. Make sure you're dressed in clothes that will keep you warm if you were to get wet - avoid jeans or cotton if possible. Choose your clothes responsibly: we recommend fleece with a waterproof layer on top, or neoprene layers for paddling. 

Whether you're paddling alone or with your family, let someone else know your plans for the day. Whether that is a quick text or a morning chat with your neighbour. This means people know when to expect you back and, if you don't return, to alert the authorities if they can't get hold of you. 

The highlight of trips on a canoe are the memories you make and of course, documenting the trip. It's likely you'll want to take cameras and phones with you. Make sure these are secured in a dry bag or waterproof pouch which can be attached to the boat or yourself for safety. 

Canoeing is thirsty work! While you may be paddling in fresh water lakes, rivers or canals, the water is often not suitable for drinking. Make sure you pack enough fresh water for the day and a bit more, just incase. 

Do you have a trail you're following? Have you checked the weather, the water conditions and understand the abilities needed to paddle that waterway? Always know and understand not only your limits, but the limits of those you might be paddling with.