Basic class information & FAQs:

Goal :
To introduce the sport of canoeing or kayaking and teach the basic techniques for safe paddling. Paddling techniques and safety are our primary objectives, along with having fun and enjoying the great outdoors.

Offering:
Classes are generally held in the morning on Saturday’s or Sunday’s. Our scheduled classes begin in April and continue through October, depending on weather conditions. Private and mid week classes are available on a as requested basis. Corporate team building classes are also available. Please contact our store for more details.

Who should take the clinic:
To take this course you should be in reasonable physical condition, be comfortable in the water, and have an interest in paddling. We try to group paddlers of the same age, however, this is not a guarantee. We encourage paddlers of all ages, from ten years of age and older.

What will be covered:
After introducing the sport and the equipment, we will get our first taste of the boats in the security of our own private pond where we can practice exiting and leaning the canoe or kayak, and learn the basic strokes, including sweep strokes, forward strokes, draws, and braces.

What to wear & bring:
Dress in comfortable clothes, in layers. Mother nature has a mind of her own and paddling conditions may change. Be prepared to get wet. We strongly suggest that all personal belongings(such as keys, wallets, jewelry, and any items of value) be left behind. We are not responsible for your personal belongings.

Sunscreen will increase your comfort during your clinic. If you wear glasses, you will want a glass retaining strap to keep them on your head. You may want a towel to dry off at the end of your class.

Stretching:
You will be spending hours in your boat. If you are canoeing, you will be kneeling (about 10 inches off the bottom of the canoe). If you are kayaking, you will be sitting with your legs stretched in front of you. To prepare your body, you will want to stretch your thighs (canoe), hamstrings (kayak), and torso (back, stomach, shoulders and neck). If you increase your flexibility, you will have more efficient strokes, and you will be more comfortable in your boat. The book “Stretching” by Bob Anderson is an excellent reference for specific stretches.

Class Benefits:
At the end of class you will get two shop discount cards good for two weeks from the date of your class. One card entitles you to 10% off accessories in our store. The second card entitles you to a $50.00 discount off a boat purchase. All boat purchases come with 10% accessories discount in our store for the next year.

Making reservations:
Reservations are required for canoe/kayak classes and rentals. You can call, email or mail your reservations to us. Reservations are taken on a space available basis. We will confirm reservations. If you do not hear from us after three days, call 860-354-3276 or try emailing us again.

DEPOSIT AMOUNTS
• Reservations made more than 45 days in advance of the trip date require a 50% deposit. The balance is due 45 days prior to the trip. Nonpayment of balance by 45 days may result in forfeiture of deposit and cancelled reservations.
• Reservations made 45 days or less in advance of the trip date require payment in full.
• When paying by check or money order, the appropriate deposit must be received within 10 days of booking a trip. We accept all major credit cards(M/C, VISA, AMEX & DISCOVER).

IF YOU CANCEL...
• More than 30 days in advance of your trip date, we retain a $10 per person cancellation fee.
• 30 days or less in advance of your trip date, you forfeit the entire cost of your trip.
• Money forfeited may not be applied to any outstanding balances.

TRANSFERRING RESERVATIONS
All reservations are transferable to another person, but not another date. Transferring to another date is the same as cancelling.

INCLEMENT WEATHER/HIGH WATER
The Trading Post classes go regardless of the weather with the exception of weather conditions deemed dangerous by The Trading Post. Any judgment of dangerous conditions will be made the morning of the trip at The Trading Post. We reserve the right to move a trip to another location depending on water levels/conditions. In the event we must cancel a trip for any reason, you will receive a full refund.

THE RISKS
While we have an excellent record, the sports of canoeing, and have inherent risks. It should be recognized that accidents can and do occur. For this reason, we cannot assume responsibility for injury or loss of property. Participants in all activities will be required to sign a waiver stating that they are aware of the risks involved and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Pregnant women will be prohibited from participation in The Trading Post activities. Those with health problems limiting their normal activities may be prohibited from participation at The Trading Post’s discretion.

ALCOHOL AND DRUG POLICY
The use of recreational drugs or alcohol is prohibited on all trips. If you arrive at The Trading Post’s under the influence, you will be prohibited from participating in the day's activity. In the event that we prohibit you from participating, you will not receive a refund.

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