Kayaking originated 2000 years ago among the Inuit people who used kayaks made of bones and seal skin to travel over water. A kayak is a small human-powered boat where the paddler sits facing forward and uses a double-bladed paddle to propel it over water. Kayaking has since evolved into a recreational activity and sport where people use modern materials like fiberglass and plastic to kayak on various bodies of water for enjoyment and exercise.