Benefits of canoeing & kayaking
Kayaking and canoeing might be different sports, but they share a whole host of similar benefits for your mind and body! Read on to find out more.
While similar in nature, canoeing and kayaking are actually different in several ways.
You'll discover that canoes are more stable and harder to capsize, whereas kayaks are usually smaller and easier to manoeuvre around with.
However, they also offer a whole range of common physical and mental benefits.
Read on to discover more!
Physical benefits
1. Improved upper body and core strength
Most of the strain is put on the upper body. The paddling pull stroke and torso rotation strengthens arms, shoulders, back and pecs.
The abs and obliques are also greatly used, especially in the right paddling position, in other words with the torso slightly bent forward.
2. Toned legs
If paddling puts the lower parts of the body under less strain, they are nevertheless active when paddling, in particular, with leg work during strokes and feet to keep balance in the kayak and driving with thighs against the sides of the hull.
3. Improved cardiac health and endurance
Kayaking and canoeing are forms of cardio exercises, which means they get your blood flowing and pumping quite a bit!
Cardiac exercises are optimal for heart health, such that it improves its ability to regulate circulation.
Therefore, the more you kayak or canoe, the stronger your heart will become.
Kayaking or canoeing just three times a week will also improve your stamina and endurance.
You'll discover that your overall energy level will be significantly improved,
Mental benefits
1. Discovering new landscapes
As you paddle along, discover, with the current, plenty of landscapes that are very often inaccessible by land.
You'll readily have access to nature, immersed in the dulcet sound of water, as you are amazed by a new perspective of seeing how beautiful land looks when seen from the water.
You'll quickly feel the mental excitement of discovering new sights and sounds, and will very quickly schedule the next outings to get your fill of enjoyment.
2. Quality family time
With Decathlon's Inflatable Kayak, you and your family can enjoy kayaking together. There are up to 4 seaters kayak that allow you to to share the joy of being on the water.
Family time builds stronger emotional bonds and improves communication skills between everyone. It also reduces behavioural issues in young kids – something that should not be overlooked!
A trip alone can leave plenty to the imagination: paddle to win a racing challenge, use the craft as a diving board, touring, get access to a secret island, discover fauna and flora and so much more.
And the kids will always be thrilled and delighted to set off on a water adventure!
3. Adrenaline rush of a new experience
Developing your canoe-kayak skills might tempt you into trying new experiences such as long distance touring over one or several days or yet still sample the joys of competing by lining up for your first races.
With new opportunities, also comes the adrenaline rush of trying something new! Which will leave your body and soul feeling good for a sustained period of time.
Now that you've discovered the benefits of kayaking and canoeing, go forth and plan your next trip – you won't regret it.
Happy paddling!
Written by: olee sasithon
Watersports digital sports leader, decathlon singapore
Nothing beats the feeling of being in or near the water!
