Introduction
Kayaking is a great activity for all ages and ability levels. It’s much more enjoyable than running on a treadmill or doing an aerobics class!
Did you know that a fast-paced kayaking session can burn up to 1,500 calories per hour! It’s a very effective way to lose weight quickly and is calming for the soul. You can take in the beautiful scenic water views along the way – a nice change of scenery from the gym!
It’s been a popular activity during the Pandemic period due to people not being able to go to the gym, and I can see why! The photo above shows a couple enjoying their paddle down the Parramatta River near Newington in Sydney.
So, what other benefits does it provide?
Tones the body
This exercise tones your body, gets you in shape, improves your upper body strength and is fun. Your arms propel you through the water, but you also work the muscles in your shoulders, chest and back. The more you do it, the stronger these muscles will become.
Good leg workout
This low-impact exercise can really help you to shape your legs. Your leg muscles work hard when paddling, and over time, they’ll become toned as you keep practising.
Increases your cardiovascular endurance
This sport is great for strengthening your heart and expanding your lung capacity. It improves your ability to pump blood and regulate circulation. The more you practise, the stronger your heart and lung capacity will become, and your endurance will naturally increase as a result.
Improves mental health
This is an outdoor activity which is great for calming the mind, soothing your soul and relaxing your nervous system. So, if you have a stressful job, are going through a difficult time or simply just need a change of scenery, this exercise is excellent! Spending time outdoors exercising boosts your mood, reduces stress levels, anxiety, depression and can help to alleviate symptoms associated with medical conditions.
Improves mental focus
The ‘happy hormones’ that boost your mood also help you to better focus. Kayaking every week gives your brain a break from daily worries and allows you to get back into the grind with improved motivation and concentration.
It also helps you to sleep better throughout the night because you’ve spent your energy in the day, improving your quality of sleep.
Strengthens your core
This exercise is so good for building your core strength. You’ll get the lean, muscular body you desire by working your stomach, abdominals, lower back, shoulders and obliques. Your stomach / abdominal muscles are engaged when you lean forward, your back muscles are working when you pull backwards and your obliques are working when you twist whilst paddling. Also, keep in mind that when you are resting you are constantly engaging your core muscles to maintain balance.
It really is an ‘all in one’ core body workout!
Builds your confidence
This exercise is excellent for building self-confidence as it boosts your mood and keeps you fit and healthy. If you suffer from depression this exercise is exceptionally beneficial for you.
In Summary
This is a fantastic activity that can be practised either solo or with friends and family. Don’t forget to stretch your quadriceps, hamstrings, shins, calves, arms and back after each session. Stretching will help relieve the soreness that comes with this sport. Have fun on the water!