Eskimo Roll (Kayak Roll)
A paddling technique for righting a capsized kayak or canoe while remaining seated in it, using a coordinated hip and paddle motion.
Definition
The roll is a self-rescue technique in which a capsized paddler brings the boat back upright without exiting it. The key action is a hip snap that rotates the boat under the body, supported by a sweeping paddle stroke that provides a brief brace at the surface. Being able to roll lets paddlers recover from a capsize quickly in surf, whitewater or open water.
The technique has long been known as the Eskimo roll, but many paddlers and organisations now prefer 'kayak roll', 'combat roll' or simply 'roll', because 'Eskimo' is regarded by some Inuit and other Arctic peoples as outdated or offensive. The skill itself traces to Arctic kayaking traditions, where reliably righting a capsized kayak in cold water was essential to survival.
Scope: Increasingly called the 'kayak roll' or 'combat roll'; the word 'Eskimo' is regarded by some as outdated or offensive.
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Skills
- Front crawlThe fastest swimming stroke, using alternating arm pulls and a flutter kick while face-down.
- ThrowingThe skill of propelling the ball accurately and with control using the arm.
- BlockingThe skill of using the hands or body to stop or slow an opponent’s attack.
- BreathingThe skill of controlling the breath rhythmically to sustain effort and stay relaxed.
- BreaststrokeA swimming stroke using a symmetrical arm sweep and a frog-like kick, with the head lifting to breathe.
Sport categories
- Combat SportsMartial arts and combat disciplines focused on technique, control and self-discipline in a structured setting.
- Water SportsSports in and on the water. Kind to the joints while working the whole body, from swimming lengths to open water.
- Racquet SportsSports played with a racquet, paddle or bat across a net. Great for reactions, footwork and playing with a partner or four.
Exercises
- Russian twistA rotational core exercise where you twist your torso from side to side while seated and leaning back.
- Hip hingeThe foundational bending-at-the-hips pattern that underpins deadlifts, swings and picking things up.
- Kettlebell swingA dynamic hinge where you swing a kettlebell to shoulder height using a snap of the hips.
- Hip thrustA loaded hip-extension exercise with your upper back on a bench and a weight across the hips.
- Farmer’s carryA loaded carry where you walk while holding a heavy weight in each hand.
Techniques
- Volleyball SetAn overhead pass using the fingertips of both hands to place the ball accurately for a teammate to attack.
- BackstrokeThe only competitive stroke swum on the back, using alternating overhead arm pulls and a steady flutter kick.
- Push-UpA bodyweight exercise that lowers and raises the body by bending and straightening the arms while holding a rigid plank line.
- Freestyle StrokeThe fastest swimming stroke, using alternating overhead arm pulls, a flutter kick and rhythmic side breathing.
- LayupA close-range basketball shot taken while moving toward the basket, laying the ball softly off the backboard or over the rim.
Disciplines
- ClassicClassic is the original cross-country technique, with skis kept parallel in set tracks and a striding kick-and-glide motion.
- SUP SurfingSUP surfing is riding waves on a stand-up paddleboard, staying upright and using a long paddle to catch waves and steer through the ride.
- Whitewater & CreekingWhitewater kayaking is the descent of moving rivers and rapids, with creeking focused on steep, technical drops and low-volume runs.
- Sea Kayaking (Touring)Sea kayaking is touring open water in longer, storage-equipped boats, emphasizing efficient paddling, navigation, and endurance over distance.
- Slalom (Whitewater Gates)Slalom kayaking times paddlers through a sequence of hanging gates on whitewater, combining precise boat control with reading fast-moving current.