{"id":5458,"date":"2023-07-09T07:08:31","date_gmt":"2023-07-09T00:08:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/?p=5458"},"modified":"2023-07-09T07:08:31","modified_gmt":"2023-07-09T00:08:31","slug":"the-kayaking-benefits-that-make-it-an-ideal-summer-workout","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/?p=5458","title":{"rendered":"The Kayaking Benefits That Make It an Ideal Summer Workout"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <script async src=\"https:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-3711241968723425\"\r\n     crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"drop-cap text-big text-gray\"> <span class=\"drop-cap__first text-dropcap \">I<\/span>f you\u2019re like me, these hot temps have you dreaming of lake days and beach vacations. After all, is there anything better than getting out in the sun, drinking <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/agua-fresca-recipe-ideas\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/agua-fresca-recipe-ideas\/\">an agua fresca<\/a>, and enjoying a summer-y activity, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/things-i-learned-paddle-boarding-the-hudson\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/things-i-learned-paddle-boarding-the-hudson\/\">paddle boarding on the river<\/a>\u2014or if you\u2019re feeling especially brave, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/5-things-all-first-time-surfers-need-to-know\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/5-things-all-first-time-surfers-need-to-know\/\">surfing for the first time<\/a>?<\/div>\n<p>Speaking of, one popular activity on the water we suggest: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/black-women-who-kayak\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/black-women-who-kayak\/\">kayaking<\/a>. Not only is it the ultimate way to relax, but it\u2019s also a great way to get some movement in. (Don\u2019t have a kayak? We <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/oru-lake-review\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/oru-lake-review\/\">recommend the Oru Lake kayak<\/a>, which is light and foldable.)<\/p>\n<p>Below, certified personal trainers dive deeper into why kayaking is the thing to do this summer (plus how to stay safe doing it).<\/p>\n<h2>How your body benefits from kayaking<\/h2>\n<h3>Kayaking improves your heart health and overall health<\/h3>\n<p>To start, kayaking is a great choice if you want another way to get cardio in your routine. \u201cKayaking is a good cardiovascular workout, so it keeps your heart healthy,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/joshyorkgg\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/joshyorkgg\/?hl=en\">Josh York<\/a>, CPT, founder and CEO of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gymguyz.com\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" rel=\"nofollow\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.gymguyz.com\/\">GYMGUYZ<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, <a href=\"https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/the-many-benefits-of-a-cardio-workout\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/the-many-benefits-of-a-cardio-workout\/\">cardio workouts can also benefit<\/a> your skin, digestion, joints, muscles, lungs, immune system, sleep quality, and more, according to the Cleveland Clinic.<\/p>\n<h3>It works the muscles in your arms, core, and upper back<\/h3>\n<p>While kayaking can be a great workout for anyone who feels able and is interested, it\u2019s \u201cespecially good for those looking to strengthen their arms, core, and upper back muscles,\u201d says <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jesse-feder-a04114145\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jesse-feder-a04114145\">Jesse Feder<\/a>, a CPT with <a href=\"https:\/\/mycrohnsandcolitisteam.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/mycrohnsandcolitisteam.com\">My Crohn\u2019s and Colitis Team<\/a>. \u201cKayaking involves using your upper body and core muscles to pull against water resistance with the paddles, which is what makes this such a great workout.\u201d He adds that people who work slouched over at a desk all day may especially want to work those muscles.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, kayaking is unlike some other common types of exercise you may do with a few friends. \u201c[Kayaking] doesn\u2019t put too much stress on the joints, unlike other social activities like hiking, volleyball, or dancing,\u201d York says.<\/p>\n<h3>It helps your joints, muscles, and bones stay strong<\/h3>\n<p>Kayaking is also great for people who are older or have joint or muscle problems. That\u2019s because it builds muscle and bone density, according to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thisiswhyimfit.com\/author\/thisiswhyimfit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.thisiswhyimfit.com\/author\/thisiswhyimfit\/\">Mike Julom<\/a>, an ACE-certified personal trainer, CrossFit athlete, and founder of <a href=\"https:\/\/thisiswhyimfit.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/thisiswhyimfit.com\">ThisIsWhyImFit.com<\/a>. \u201cIt\u2019s similar to lifting weights, but instead of a dumbbell, you\u2019re lifting your paddle against the resistance of the water,\u201d he explains. \u201c[This can] help combat the natural decline in bone density that occurs with age.\u201d<\/p>\n<h3>It can be switched up<\/h3>\n<p>Any workout can get boring if you don\u2019t change things up a bit. That\u2019s why York loves how customizable kayaking is. If you want to kick it up a notch, play with the tempo of your strokes, or, if you&#8217;re seasoned enough, consider kayaking in a faster current, or a winding river instead of an open lake\u2014something that requires you to maneuver in a different way. There are also single, and two-person kayaks that&#8217;ll change the dynamic of your workout, depending on what you choose.<\/p>\n<div class=\"related-content \" style=\"\" data-module-init=\"related-content\" data-module-immediate=\"\" v-cloak=\"\">\n<div class=\"related-content__wrapper \" v-cloak=\"\" :class=\"{'is-loaded':isLoaded}\">\n<p> <span class=\"inline pr-6 text-seafoam-dark\">Related Stories<\/span> <\/p>\n<p> <related-content class=\"related-content__links\" parent-article-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/kayaking-benefits\/\" current-title=\"Why Kayaking Is the Ideal Summer Workout With Its Heart-Healthy, Core-Strengthening, Mood-Boosting Perks\" current-image=\"GettyImages-1401768893-425x285.jpg\" v-on:parsely-posts-loaded=\"onPostsLoaded\" start-date=\"2023-01-08\" tag=\"div\" inline-template=\"\" url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/kayaking-benefits\/\" secret=\"w5ztterVB03LGZJLfXS0hf3EvQBuFFIWew9hmVQxthU\" apikey=\"wellandgood.com\" limit=\"3\"> <\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"related-content__card mb-[10px] sm:mb-[20px]\" :class=\"{'related-content__card--full':posts.length === 1}\" v-for=\"(post, key) in posts\"> <a v-on:click.prevent=\"trackLinkGA($event, key)\" :href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/kayaking-benefits\/post.url\" data-url-source=\"related-content\" class=\"related-content__link\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"\"> <\/p>\n<div class=\"related-content__card--image bg-tan\" :style=\"{ backgroundImage: 'url(' + post.image_url + ')' }\"> <img :src=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/kayaking-benefits\/post.image_url\" :alt=\"post.title\"\/> <\/div>\n<p> <\/a>  <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p> <\/related-content> <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<h2>How kayaking is good for the mind<\/h2>\n<h3>It increases feel-good hormones<\/h3>\n<p>As a form of movement, kayaking <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/dopamine-vs-serotonin\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/dopamine-vs-serotonin\/\">increases dopamine and serotonin<\/a>, which are hormones that decrease stress, lead to feelings of happiness, and have other positive effects.<\/p>\n<h3>It\u2019s done outdoors, which can reduce stress and improve mood<\/h3>\n<p>As a workout that\u2019s done outside, it brings all those benefits. Both Feder and York mention how peaceful and healing both nature and fresh air are.<\/p>\n<p>Julom explains this further, speaking to how the rhythmic motion of paddling, sound of the water, and sense of gliding across the surface can be soothing. \u201cThis is an example of what psychologists call the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1438463917302699\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S1438463917302699\">\u2018blue space\u2019 effect<\/a>, where being near water can lead to lower levels of stress and anxiety,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n<h3>It can lead to higher levels of confidence<\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re new to kayaking\u2014or even if you aren\u2019t\u2014practicing can serve as a confidence booster, too. \u201cOvercoming challenges, such as learning to steer or tackling more difficult water conditions, can lead to a sense of achievement and improve self-esteem,\u201d Julom adds.<\/p>\n<h2>FYI, a few risks to prepare for before hitting the water<\/h2>\n<h3>The kayak could capsize<\/h3>\n<p>While kayaking is one of the more fun ways to exercise, it\u2019s not without risks. First, the possibility of capsizing. Julom says wearing a life jacket is crucial, regardless of how well you can swim. \u201cAdditionally, learning and practicing how to right a capsized kayak can be a lifesaver,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n<h3>The elements can be dangerous<\/h3>\n<p>From a safety standpoint, be mindful of where and when you kayak. York recommends doing some research on the body of water to ensure it\u2019s safe. Some <a href=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/beginner-guide-to-lake-kayaking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/lakeaccess.org\/beginner-guide-to-lake-kayaking\/\">examples of information to check about<\/a> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Finding a calm, shallow spot on the water<\/li>\n<li>Wearing a helmet (along with your life jacket)<\/li>\n<li>Bringing a whistle, flashlight, extra paddle, and navigation equipment<\/li>\n<li>Kayaking with a friend<\/li>\n<li>Skipping the activity if the weather is stormy or windy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Along those lines, Julom recommends being mindful of your exposure to the elements. \u201cSunburn, dehydration, and hypothermia can all be concerns when kayaking, depending on the weather conditions,\u201d he says. To avoid these risks, he continues, wear sunscreen, bring plenty of water, and dress for the weather.<\/p>\n<h3>You could overwork or strain a muscle<\/h3>\n<p>Listening to your body is paramount. \u201cLike with any activity, overuse injuries can be a problem if you do too much too soon,\u201d Feder says. \u201cWhile kayaking is great for your body and muscles, it is best to ease into the activity and build up your strength\/endurance.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Julom emphasizes the importance of proper paddling technique. \u201cUsing your core muscles to help power your stroke, rather than just your arms, can help distribute the effort and reduce strain,\u201d he says. Further, he encourages warming up and cooling down to prevent muscle strains and injuries.<\/p>\n<p>Besides technique, the frequency and length of your kayaking sessions matter, too. Julom recommends beginners hit the water for no longer than 20 to 30 minutes, between one to two times a week. As they become more comfortable, he says, they can go up to one to two hours, and up to three times a week. He explains this frequency gives people the benefits of kayaking without sacrificing the necessary time their bodies need to recover.<\/p>\n<p>Otherwise, consistency is key. \u201cI would recommend that someone kayak with the same frequency that they would exercise in another form,\u201d York adds.<\/p>\n<p>As you can tell, there\u2019s a lot to keep in mind when it comes to water safety. At the same time, all of the mental and physical benefits of kayaking\u2014plus the pure enjoyment it can bring\u2014mean it may be your new favorite way to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/camp-los-angeles-adult-summer-camp\/\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\" data-vars-event=\"body text\" data-vars-click-url=\"https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/camp-los-angeles-adult-summer-camp\/\">get in some movement this summer<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><script async defer src=\"https:\/\/platform.instagram.com\/en_US\/embeds.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><div data-type=\"_mgwidget\" data-widget-id=\"1675549\">\r\n<\/div>\r\n<script>(function(w,q){w[q]=w[q]||[];w[q].push([\"_mgc.load\"])})(window,\"_mgq\");\r\n<\/script>\r\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re like me, these hot temps have you dreaming of lake days and beach vacations. After all, is there anything better than getting out in the sun, drinking an agua fresca, and enjoying a summer-y activity, such as paddle boarding on the river\u2014or if you\u2019re feeling especially brave, surfing for the first time? Speaking &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":5459,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5458","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5458","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=5458"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5458\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/5459"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=5458"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=5458"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=5458"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}