Hey beginners ....

I've had a good time with professional instruction, but DARN it can be expensive!!

Don't get me wrong - I agree its REALLY important to have GOOD instruction rather than getting out there and learning bad habits.

The other thing I like about instruction is that it usually includes all the necessary gear, allowing you to demo different brands, and saving you from buying a bunch of gear before you know if you'll quit after a season of bad swims!

In terms of instruction, I HIGHLY recommend Anna Levesque and the 'Girls At Play' program. I did her 'Mexico Beginner Week of Rivers' in Mexico this past winter - and it was AMAZING. My skill level grew tremendously, and I learned alot about the mental aspects of kayaking (things that I apparently forgot on the Nanty a few weeks back ;-) You can check out her site and message board at http://www.watergirlsatplay.com

Any other great instruction out there? Anyone had experience with the USNWC? How about local canoe and kayak clubs?