The main thrust of this paper is to outline the various methods and benefits derived from training for general strength and strength endurance, both of which are vital components in the armoury of the complete downriver kayak racer. The aid of this type of training is to increase the resistance to forward progress by artificial or natural means with a greater or lesser degree of control according to the method chosen. The options available fall into the two categories of sport specific and sport non-specific, each of which have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.