What are the benefits of joining?
- Be welcomed as part of a Wave Walkers community and the community of Raging Dragons who are supporting Wave Walkers
- Regular exercise
- Improve your physical fitness and strength
- Improve your mental strength, mindset and wellbeing
- Meet new friends
- Opportunities to take part in events
- A supportive and understanding network of others also affected by cancer
- Participate in or organise social activities
i'm a total newbie to dragon boating. Can I join?
Yes. Any level of experience is welcome, including newbies! Many of us were new to dragon boating when we joined too. We are used to having people in the boat with us who are still not up to full strength as they have just had chemotherapy - we understand and it's not a problem.
do I need to be fit and strong?
Nope! As a team we help to build each individual's physical and mental strength, fitness and overall wellbeing. It doesn't matter if you struggle at first, you'll soon get the hang of it. Some of us could only paddle 20 strokes at most when we joined - and now we're taking part in international events!
How long does a session last?
Generally an hour to an hour and a half. We do a warm up in the boat yard, get the boat onto the water, After a paddle we get the boat back out of the water we warm down and have some reflection and feedback. We often go for a coffee after in a nice place around the corner.
is it all just about training in the boat?
We have fun and support each other both on and off the boat. Whilst we meet weekly to train and get good exercise, we also like to socialise at other times too - whether just over WhatsApp or arranging a meet up. But it's totally up to you how much you get involved!
what if I need to undergo treatment?
Cancer interrupts lives, that is a fact and unfortunately the boat reflects this with members absent from sessions from time to time. They are always welcomed back as if they have never been away.
The coach and team are sensitive to the various treatments members have had or are still undergoing. They help members develop good technique to avoid injury, and encourage participation at all levels of fitness.
The coach and team are sensitive to the various treatments members have had or are still undergoing. They help members develop good technique to avoid injury, and encourage participation at all levels of fitness.
do i have to take part in races and events?
No you don't - it's up to you. But many of our members often take part if they can - they love the team spirit and the motivation, not to mention some of the amazing views and scenes in the UK and abroad while paddling.
do i need any special equipment or clothing?
You just need to wear loose comfortable clothes, trainers or footwear with grip. Waterproofs if its a wet day, sunblock and a cap if its a hot one! There are sometimes splashes of water created during paddling so we'd also always advise bringing a change of clothing (including underwear) for after the session so you can be comfortable while having a coffee with the team near the centre or travelling home. There are changing rooms, showers and lockers. Paddles and buoyancy aids are provided.
Do I need to be a good swimmer?
You should be able to swim 50 metres. You'll be wearing a buoyancy aid and have boat mates looking out for you. We don't expect to fall in, but need to be OK if it ever happens.
Has everyone on the boat had cancer?
No not everyone. We support those who've come through treatment, anyone who has lost someone, or been a carer, or worked in cancer recovery. We have some members who haven't been affected by cancer and welcome anyone with the understanding that sometimes others on the boat may be having an off day. We focus on wellbeing and ask that people bring empathy and understanding to the boat. If someone wants to share and talk about how they are feeling that's absolutely fine, equally privacy is respected and often just being out on the water provides a healing experience. There is no pressure or expectation either way.
