Sprint canoe kayak is about speed on flatwater. Strength, technique, endurance and raw speed combine in this Olympic discipline. Sprint paddling can be enjoyed by everyone; kids as young as five and Masters paddlers into their 80s all have fun on the water. Sprint involves the entire body, including the legs pushing and pulling to generate power with the stroke.

Sprint racing takes place on a straight course divided in lanes, on calm water. The distances recognized for international races are 200m, 500m, and 1000m. Each boat has its own designated lane, except for races exceeding 1000m, where there also may be turning points. One, two and four person canoes and kayaks are used.