Learn to roll a kayak

Evenings by arrangement, 7-8pm (private heated pool, near Richmond)

Take your first step into the world of white water, practice your self-rescues, build your confidence or refresh your skills before that big trip.

What is this session?

I’m offering private coaching for individuals or groups of up to 4 people in a heated pool in West London.

This might be your first attempt at rolling a kayak, or an opportunity to practice your self rescues before your taking your Instructor or Leader award.

Before the session we’ll talk over the phone so I can understand your goals. For example:

• If you are new to rolling you will need more than one session, but rolling practice is tiring, so little and often is the key. You’ll leave your first session with a firm grasp of the techniques and lots of things to practice independently next time you are on the water with a buddy.
• If you are developing your skills on the way to a coaching qualification, I can give you a sense of your readiness for your assessment, providing some tips and advice for your development plan.
• Perhaps you just want to build your confidence in a safe and controlled environment before an upcoming trip or after a break from paddling.
• Maybe this is your first time using a spray deck or you are looking for a safe place to get used to your new equipment.

If you would like follow up sessions in the pool or on a nearby lake this can easily be arranged.

Personalised coaching in a private pool sounds expensive, how much will it cost?

I live close by and enjoy coaching, so pool hire, use of my equipment and coaching is all included for just £60 for the hour. You may want a 1:1 session, or be a group of up to four people.

For groups larger than four, we’ll need to organise two consecutive hours, giving you the opportunity to watch and learn from each other.

Who’s going to keep me safe?

I’m a British Canoeing Level 3 Coach and Paddlesport Safety Tutor who coaches Canoes, Kayaks and Paddleboards.

As someone who delivers the PSRC course, I have an up to date understanding of the requirements of the PIA, PSL and Coach Award assessments.

Where is the pool?

Conveniently located on the A316 between Richmond and Twickenham. Perfect for some practice of an evening after college or work. The pool is heated to 34 degrees, providing an excellent year-round venue.

There is free parking on The Avenue and Ranelagh Drive and excellent transport links nearby. The private pool is a hidden gem a short walk up Budds Alley (see map).

Ok great, how do I book this?

Please contact me, providing your name, phone number and an idea of when you’d like your session. I’ll get back to you promptly with some possible dates once I’ve checked availability at the pool.

Ok, we’ve just spoken and fixed a date (exciting!) now what?

Once we’ve agreed a date, come back here and buy your ‘ticket’ to your own private rolling session.

Please make sure we have a date agreed and pool availability confirmed before booking your place.

Full refunds (minus any PayPal admin fees) will be given if you cancel at least 48 hours in advance. If you need to cancel before the session on the day I can only refund 50% as I will need to pay the pool hire.

2024 availability (by arrangement):