Kayaking, more than just a physical activity, is also a fun and exciting way to reconnect with nature and explore new places. With kayaking, you’re not only going to enjoy but also reap plenty of mental and physical health benefits. In this article, you’ll learn the benefits of kayaking and why you should get into it. Let’s get paddling!
Why Do You Need To Start Kayaking?
Kayaks are also designed for the intensity you want, whether a relaxing paddling on a pristine lake or challenging the rigorous rapids.
Does Kayaking Count As An Exercise?
Yes, kayaking is a physical exercise that provides plenty of benefits. Kayaking is a great regular exercise for all ages. It is a low-impact exercise that only puts your entire body and joints under minimal stress. This makes for a good activity even for people with mobility issues. Spending time outdoors while kayaking can be both enjoyable and physically beneficial.
What Physical Skills Do You Get From Kayaking?
You can gain these physical benefits by making kayaking a part of your active lifestyle.
1. Enhanced Cardiovascular Endurance And Immune System
Paddling is an aerobic exercise that increases your heart rate, which helps burn calories. This strengthens your heart, giving you improved cardiovascular health. It helps promote better blood flow and lower blood pressure, which prevents heart risks and diseases. Kayaking exposes you to the sun, rewarding you with higher sunshine vitamin D levels.
2. Improves Upper Body Strength
Kayaking is a great workout for your upper body muscles since you’ll use your arms a lot to paddle. Regular paddling activities target your upper arm muscles and engage your back muscles, shoulders, and chest.
3. Sturdier Core Muscles
Your core muscles are engaged while you do every paddle stroke. As you lean, your abdominal muscles contract, while as you pull back, you engage with your lower back muscles. Meanwhile, as your turn and twist your body, your obliques are triggered, making kayaking an effective overall core exercise.
4. Toned Legs
Although kayaking can be more upper body extensive, it also promotes development in the lower body. Leg muscles play a vital role in stabilizing and giving power to each paddle stroke.
5. Better Weight Management And Improves Muscle Endurance
Since it burns calories, kayaking can help you lose weight. If done regularly, it is a good workout to keep you in shape. Kayaking also increases your endurance levels. Like jogging or swimming, kayaking for a few hours will help build stamina and muscle endurance. Kayaking for more than an hour can be better than staying stuck on the treadmill for the same duration.
Is Kayaking Good For Mental Health?
Weight loss is just one of the health benefits of kayaking, but it doesn’t end there. Rowing and paddling in calm waters reduces stress and can help in everyday life with self confidence and boosting energy levels. This outdoor activity is not limited to the body, there are also proven mental health benefits.
1. It Helps Relieve Stress And Gain Confidence
The fresh air and natural scenery reduce stress and help relax the mind. As you lower your stress levels, kayaking exercises also improve your happiness, boosting self-esteem. Plus, if you’re new to kayaking, it also gives a sense of accomplishment in developing a new skill.
2. Improved Focus And Sharpens Memory
Kayaking will also improve your thinking skills as you navigate your way toward potential obstacles. This racks up your brain cells and strengthens neural connections.
3. Promotes A Good Night’s Sleep
A worked-out whole body will sure require good sleep. As supported by research, you fall asleep easier and have better sleep quality after daytime exercises. Kayaking will help you improve your fitness levels and provide mental benefits. This water sport is good for your overall well-being.