Canoeing and kayaking are low impact activities that can improve your aerobic fitness, strength and flexibility.
Specific health benefits include:
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Increased muscle strength, particularly in the back, arms, shoulders and chest, from moving the paddle
- Increased torso and leg strength, as the strength to power a canoe or kayak comes mainly from rotating the torso and applying pressure with your legs
- Reduced risk of wear-and-tear on joints and tissues, since paddling is a low impact activity
Some other good reasons to paddle include:
- Kayaking and canoeing can be peaceful and meditative or can be exhilarating – depending on where and how you do it
- Paddling is a great way to enjoy our waterways
- Social interaction with like minded people
