About this activity
Leisure canoeing is a recreational aquatic activity involving paddling a small, open-topped boat. One or more participants sit or kneel and use single-blade paddles to propel the boat across the water. Paddlers typically use a "J-stroke" to generate power most efficiently. Some paddlers may wear braces or lightweight padding to allow for comfort and stability while kneeling. Recreational canoeing is a popular summer pastime on lakes, rivers, and oceans across Canada.
Origins & history
Canoes have been used across the world for millennia for purposes of leisure, transportation, trade, or war, with the oldest identified canoe in the Netherlands dating to between 8040-7510 BCE. Canoes were a common mode of transportation for many Canadian First Nations. Following the arrival of European settlers, canoes were used as vehicles of transportation in the fur trade. As the fur trade declined, canoeing in a recreational form began to emerge. British settlers, who enjoyed sailing and rowing as recreation, began to include canoes in regattas. Canoeing as an organized sport began in 1866 at the Royal Canoe Club of London, with the first Canadian club, the Toronto Canoe Club, following in 1880.
When it happens
Leisure canoeing is typically a summer activity in the GTA.
Who takes part
Males and females of diverse ages and ethnocultural backgrounds.
