Water sports

Canoe polo

Polo from a kayak, with passing, shooting and lots of splashing.

  • Hardintensity
  • ~490kcal per hour
  • Low costbudget
  • Mediumimpact
Canoe polo illustration

Is canoe polo right for you?

Polo from a kayak, with passing, shooting and lots of splashing. It is a hard-intensity, medium impact activity that you can do indoors or outdoors, in a group. Expect to burn around 490 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Takes some practice. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.

Why try canoe polo

  • Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
  • Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.
  • Sociable. It is an easy way to meet people and have fun.

How to start canoe polo

  1. Ask a canoe club whether they run canoe polo sessions.

  2. Get the basics: club boat, helmet. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Join a beginners' session or go with someone who can show you the basics.

  4. Stay safe around water: go with other people, check the conditions and learn with a qualified instructor.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1215Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2220Repeat last week and add a little time.
3325Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4330Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

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