After all, the idea is play, fun and fitness. As with all sports, the key to performance is technique. Technique is the key to performance and practice is the key to technique.
Education can make the journey smoother.
Whether you are just starting out or an experienced paddler, if you want to excel and have real fun you've got to push the limits of your kayak and yourself. The better you understand the mechanics of motion, the more moves you will be able to do. The kayak is essentially controlled and steered by leaning it. The rail is there to enable you to make sharp turns by digging it into the water. Trailing your paddle in the water cuts speed and slows the boat.