There are many reasons why people participate in canoeing and kayaking. One of the biggest reasons is the exercise they get from this fun past time.
Exercising on the lake with paddling facilitates aerobic and cardiovascular training. It also helps build upper body strength.
Both kayaks and canoes offer great benefits, regardless of the type of paddling that is performed. Some of these benefits include:
- Weight Loss
- Stress Reduction
- Back Strength
- Chest Strength
- Arm Strength
- Overall Body Conditioning
- Overall Health
- Boosted Immune System
Side Benefit
Some people paddle solely for the exercise since paddling works your back, arms, abs and more. However, those who paddle because they love to seem to reap more benefits than those who do it just for a workout.
This is because a person who loves something does not view it as a chore, they do it as much as possible since it is their hobby.
Preparation
Anyone that paddles their own kayak or canoe even just once knows the task burns a high amount of energy. And the burn doesn’t start there.
There is exercise in just getting the vessel to the water!
Imagine what it takes to just lift the boat in and out of the lake, not to mention getting it prepared for transport to and from the water.
Proper Technique
The most crucial consideration when you are paddling, especially when doing it for the exercise, is to maintain proper technique and to stretch before and after performing the activity.
The repetitive nature of this sport can adversely affect your joints and muscles when posture and rowing technique is not kept in mind.
Some injuries occur before hitting the water, when the canoe or kayak is being lifted and carried to/out of the lake.
Remember to lift with your knees when dealing with heavy objects, and to keep them close to your body when transporting so as not to strain your back and shoulders.
For more details on proper rowing techniques, look to this guide, provided by REI.
Enjoy Your Exercise
As if you needed another reason to get out on the water, the fact stays the same that you will not only enjoy paddling, but you will soon see a significant increase in your overall health due to the amount of exercise that you receive from this sport.
You will also enjoy the scenery. The water and wilderness offer a sense of peace and calm. You will relax your mind while you are exercising your body.