Paddling is the act of propelling a human-powered watercraft using at least one hand-held paddle. The paddle, which consists of one or two blades joined to a shaft, is also used to steer the vessel via generating a difference in propulsion between the two sides of the watercraft. The paddle is not connected to the boat, unlike in rowing where the oar is attached to the boat. Canoeing is the activity of paddling a canoe for leisure, navigation or exploration. In America, the term refers exclusively to using one or more single blades or paddles to propel a canoe. In the United Kingdom and some other countries in Europe, however, canoeing is also used to refer to kayaking, and canoeing is then often called Canadian canoeing to distinguish canoeing from kayaking. Kayaking is the use of a kayak for moving across water. Kayaking is differentiated from canoeing by the fact kayakers use a double-bladed paddle and sit in a seat with their legs extended out in front of them. Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are steered with a single-bladed paddle. Originating in Hawaii to help navigate the waves, the sport has grown to include flat water lakes, easy rivers, and spring runs. Traditional paddleboarding is done kneeling on a board and paddling with the hands.

It is important to note that the term "paddling" can also refer to other activities, such as using a paddle to push a pole with a wide end through the water, as well as spanking or beating with a paddle.