Canoeing has evolved as one of the popular adventure as well as recreational sport. For canoeing, special vessels called canoes with open deck are used. Canoes used for adventure sport can also be closed decked. Canoes are propelled only using human muscle power. In the ancient days, canoes were used as a means of traveling, hunting and fishing. Canoeing is played in almost every country of the world. However, the sport is more popular in countries like Germany , Hungary and Australia , which are in the leading position in the international domain of canoeing.
Canoeing can be categorized under various names like sprint, slalom, marathon, canoe polo, whitewater racing, canoe sailing, extreme racing, outrigger canoe racing , playboating and others. The organization, which governs the international domain of canoeing, is the International Canoe Federation or the ICF. The organization situated in Switzerland is responsible for various canoeing events held across the world. The event has also been included in the Olympic Games .
Like any other adventure sports , canoeing also involves a certain amount of risk. For this reason, people should be prepared to face any challenge during the activity and take precautionary measures accordingly. Moreover, to avoid any accident people should wear lifejackets and helmets. However, in some disciplines of canoeing , helmets are not worn. People who lack experience should never try to go for canoeing alone, without any professional aid.
