Master the Kayak Roll: Essential Skills at Richmond's Bellemeade Community Center
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable swimming and have basic paddling experience.
Overview
Learn to roll like a pro at Richmond’s Bellemeade Community Center with expert ACA-certified instructors guiding you through essential kayaking techniques in a safe pool setting. Perfect for beginners and intermediates ready to boost their confidence on the water.
Kayak Roll Class
Class for Beginners/Intermediates Looking for Roll Instruction • Learn a New Skill
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Join our exciting kayaking roll class at Bellemeade Community Center, perfect for beginners and intermediates alike! Experience the thrill of whitewater kayaking in a supportive environment led by ACA certified instructors. Enjoy personalized feedback, practice your skills, and make unforgettable memories in a fun, controlled setting every other Friday evening.
Description: This kayaking roll class is great for beginners who are looking to be introduced to the wonderful sport of whitewater kayaking as well as intermediates looking for roll instruction. If you have never been in a whitewater kayak we would recommend signing up for our two day intro course in order to better understand how these boats operate before you try rolling. However, you may also jump right into rolling if you so please! If you are a seasoned boater, come by to practice in a controlled environment and gain some feedback on your form from our nationally recognized ACA certified kayak instructors.
During the colder months we will be hosting roll clinics and open pool sessions at Bellemeade Community Center on Lynhaven Ave in Richmond, Virginia. Please park in the parking lot next to the building and use the entrance at the back door passed the dumpster next to the buildings air handler.
Time: Alternating Fridays @ 6:00 p.m.
Duration: 1 hr 45 min
Location: Bellemeade Community Center
What to Bring: Towel, hat, sunglasses, camera, swimwear, change of clothes, river footwear, sunscreen, water bottle. If you have your own kayak you are learning to use, we encourage you to bring that.
Inclusions: Kayak, paddles, helmets, PFDs, skirts, splash tops, guides, photographers
Adventure Tips
Bring Your Own Kayak Gear
Using your own paddle and sprayskirt helps you adapt the roll technique to the equipment you’ll use outdoors.
Dress for Warmth and Mobility
Wear quick-drying, flexible clothing suitable for a pool environment with water immersion.
Practice Regularly Between Sessions
Come to open pool sessions every other Friday to reinforce muscle memory and improve rolling technique.
Arrive Early for Setup and Safety Briefing
Getting settled and warmed up before class ensures better focus during instruction.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- River otter
History
Richmond’s waterways played a crucial role in commerce and civil war history, with kayaking now a popular way to explore this heritage.
Conservation
Instructors emphasize Leave No Trace principles and sustainable paddling practices to protect local aquatic ecosystems.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Richmond
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Kayak and Paddle
Familiarity with your own equipment speeds up learning and boosts confidence.
Sprayskirt
Keeps water out during rolling practice, essential for safety and comfort.
Wetsuit or Paddling Clothes
spring specific
Water Shoes
Protect your feet and provide grip when entering or exiting the pool area.