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Are the confined walls of the gym starting to feel monotonous? The answer to your fitness boredom might be floating on the water in a kayak. Kayaking, as Jodi Bigelow, the author of Kayaking for Fitness, points out, could be the next fitness revolution.
It offers an alternative to traditional gym-based workouts and a fun one at that!
Understanding the Basics: Kayaking 101
What exactly is a kayak, you might ask? Essentially, it’s a lightweight boat available in single or double-seating options, propelled by a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks these days come in an assortment of designs tailor-made for various purposes, such as recreation, whitewater, racing, and fishing.
The user can choose to either sit inside the kayak or on top of it.
Who Can Kayak?
Kayaking is a universal sport. Irrespective of gender or age, everyone can participate in this low-impact activity. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with limited physical capabilities like arthritis or bad knees.
You can set your own pace and choose to paddle solo or in a group. It’s a fantastic cross-training activity for athletes like runners and cyclists who have well-developed lower bodies.
Exercise on the Water
While kayaking is often perceived as a leisurely pastime, it can easily transition into a substantial fitness routine. Providing a cardiovascular workout comparable to moderate swimming or jogging, kayaking burns calories while building muscle.
Most of the workout is concentrated on the upper body – your upper back, biceps, triceps, shoulders, and forearms. However, according to Bigelow, it’s a full-body workout: “The strength to power a kayak comes from rotating the torso and applying pressure with your legs… You are connecting the boat with your body through your heel.” The consistent balancing act and maneuvering strengthen your core, making it one of the key benefits of kayaking.
More Than Physical Fitness
Beyond the physical gains, kayaking also serves as a mental exercise. Alissa Sears describes kayaking as a therapeutic encounter with nature, providing peace of mind and a unique sense of balance.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for introspection, reflection, and thought, proving that fitness can be a holistic experience.
Getting Started
Outdoor sports centers in many areas offer kayak rentals. New enthusiasts are advised to try various kayak styles to find their fit. Bigelow suggests choosing a boat that feels safe and stable: “Paddle until you find your technique.
If you keep fitness in mind, you’re more conscious of your efforts and you’ll get a better workout.” And remember, it’s always smart to invest in quality instruction to master good techniques.
Take It Up a Notch!
As kayaking gains traction, a multitude of unique approaches are emerging for those seeking a thrill. For example, SEAL TEAM PT in Richmond offers unconventional kayak experiences like push-ups on kayaks, swim drills around the kayak, and even races.
To sum it up, kayaking is an invigorating workout that welcomes individuals of all fitness levels and ages. So why not paddle your way to fitness, soaking in the beauty of the outdoors? Remember, the best gym is the one nature has provided.
