Believe it or not, man has been canoeing long before the Olympics ever came along.

But it was more out of survival thousands of years ago rather than for the sheer thrill of it.

And now it's become one of the most exciting sports knocking around - and it's so easy to get into.

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How can I get started?

Easy - get in contact with your local canoe club. Most clubs around the country hold introduction days for people who've never stepped foot in a kayak or canoe.

This is the best - and safest - way to get paddling as all clubs will have qualified coaches and instructors to help you get started.

One of the best ways to get into the sport is an activity holiday or a specialist course. Again you'll learn all the basics, but you'll have more time to put your new-found paddling skills into practice.

To find out more about this, check out the BCU website.

Do I need any special equipment?

No. If you're starting out, your local club will be able to supply the basics - canoe, lifejacket, paddle etc.

Once you get comfortable on water, then it might be worth considering buying your own equipment if you want to take up the spot seriously.

How many different style of canoeing and kayaking are there?

Absolutely loads. If white water and sprint race canoeing doesn't float your boat, then you can always give freestyle kayaking or canoe sailing a go if you fancy something less hectic.

Extreme or serene, there's a different style for everyone.

Where can I go canoeing?

Great Britain is every canoeist's dream, there are thousands of miles of canals as well as rivers, lakes and coastline.

Although you need a licence to canoe many of these waterways, it's easy to get hold of one. Just contact the BCU for more details.

How many styles of canoeing?

Inland touring Marathon Sea touring Slalom racing Surfing Freestyle White water Sprint racing Canoe polo Wild water racing Canoe sailing