Rolling Classes
Bombproof Your Roll: Beyond the Pool Custom Instruction
Our popular and highly successful 4-session Bombproof Your Roll Series focuses on those who are committed to putting in the time and effort it takes to develop a roll that works in real situations beyond the swimming pool.
“My roll is more solid than I ever dreamed . I’ve done multiple combat rolls in heavy surf and was always confident I’d roll up easily. Thanks for your priceless instruction!!!” Mike Edwards (past president, Western Sea Kayakers
Integration of Rolling into General Skills Training
If you are serious about learning to roll—especially a roll that actually works in real-life situations—it generally takes commitment and practice. Most paddlers, (myself included) don’t develop a reliable roll overnight. The difference between those paddlers who “have rolled” and those who “have a roll”–that actually works in the real world beyond the pool–typically is a direct correlation to how much training and practice they are able to commit to.
The best way to accomplish this is to integrate rolling instruction into a series of custom-private half-day (or full-day) classes designed to improve related bracing and paddling techniques while also improving your overall paddling skills. For example, a good place to begin is the Bracing and Rolling Clinic at Elkhorn Slough (see below), eventually progressing to the Rolling in Surf class. But your actual learning progression is up to you. Together with Roger, we’ll develop a custom training program to meet your specific needs and goals.
The Proof is in the Students:
We find that those who commit to 4 sessions in a row end up with a much better chance of developing a roll that actually works when they need it. For the past 8 years we’ve been using the 4-session Series with excellent results. Most students are rolling consistently by the end, including many who’d been trying off and on for years. About half are also rolling on both sides, and several are beginning to learn back-deck rolls, kelp rolls, deep sculling braces and other types of rolls designed to enhance blade awareness and finesse, all necessary skills for developing a reliable “combat” roll.
Bracing & Rolling Clinic: Elkhorn Slough
Increase your comfort and confidence in rough water. Advanced bracing techniques and the Kayak Roll both involve the same body mechanics. Since a good brace is better than the best roll, we’ll work on both skills at once in this full-day clinic.
Rates: see below
Prerequisite: ACA Level 3: Basic paddling and rescue skills (or equivalent skills/training)
Rolling in Surf
Practice your pool roll in combat with an instructor wading beside you in the soup to help you develop skills and confidence, using a series of exercises specifically designed to get you rolling in surf.
Rates: see below
Prerequisite: Fairly reliable flat-water roll.
ACA Level 3: Basic paddling and rescue skills (or equivalent skills/training), and
ACA Level 4: Intro to Surf Zone Launching and Landing (or equivalent skills/training)
Drop-In Pool Practice:
There are various location around the Bay Area offering pool practice. *Eskape is no longer doing so, (*unless you have access to a suitable pool), but suggests that you may get more out of our classes if you get some introductory pool instruction first. Try the following:
Loma Prieta Paddlers: Camden Pool in San Jose
California Canoe & Kayak: Richmond Pool
Do You Have Access to a Pool?
If you have access to a pool, I may be able to come to you. Depending on location, cost is same as for a half-day private class, see below.
PRIVATE AND SEMI-PRIVATE RATES
2 students
$150–250ea* full day (7+ hrs.)
$125-225/ea half day (3-4 hrs.)
1 student
$275-$350/ea* full day (7+ hrs.)
$200-250/ea half day (3-4 hrs.)
*Depending on travel time involved, size of group, and number of boats and instructors necessary. Since most of my students have their own equipment, this price does not include boats or gear.
Upcoming Dates: Sign up for a custom class to fit your schedule.