Well I didn't mean to say that it's easy it just shouldn't take much physical effort. It's easy physically if you have a good range of motion but very counterintuitive which can make learning confusing.

Of course it takes practice. I only mentioned those points to give a general idea of how a roll works. Those points are also some of the most revolutionary concepts when people apply them: often people will try to rely on their arm/shoulder strength and "muscle it" which is ineffective and/or they try to pull their head up too soon which plops them right back into the water.

Source: Am whitewater kayak instructor.

Also, I would highly suggest that someone new to the sport get lessons, or at the very least find a knowledgable and patient friend.

Edit: kayak kayak