Canoeing and kayaking are two of the most fun, refreshing, and invigorating ways to get on the water. They’re also a great way to get in great shape!
Whether you’re a beginner or expert paddler, this article will show you the health benefits of canoeing and kayaking.
Check them out!
1. They Promote Mental Strength and Endurance
Carrying a canoe on your shoulders isn’t easy, but the stress of that struggle is actually very good for you brain. Research shows that a 10-minute kayaking or canoeing can increase your upper-body endurance by 22%. Canoeing also increases your stamina because of the exercise it entails.
2. Increases Strength
Does strength training sound boring and difficult? It’s not. It’s actually fun and relaxing and will improve your strength, flexibility, and speed.
3. Better Heart Health
Research has shown that people who canoe regularly have a lower risk of heart disease. Doesn’t it just make you want to hop in your car, drive to the nearest lake, and go canoeing or kayaking right now?
Choose a route that interests you, and remember to check the tide tables for your destination. You’ll be floating in no time!
4. Better General Fitness
Every year, the average number of people who start a canoeing or kayaking program is growing and is twice as high as other general fitness programs.
Canoeing is also an excellent way to do cardiovascular exercise. For this reason, the U.S. Army considers it to be the best overall form of aerobic exercise for soldiers!
5. Improves Coordination and Balance
Canoeing requires careful balance and coordination. If you’ve ever watched a canoeist weave the canoe from one end of the river to the other, they are likely to have the tenacity and concentration of a professional athlete. This is an excellent way to improve your balance.
Bottom Line
Whether you want to try kayaking for the first time or you’ve been boating for years, you don’t need to worry about pounding your feet on land to get your cardiovascular exercise or build muscle tone. All you need is your own body on the water!