Spring means getting outdoors and working new exercises into your usual fitness routine. You may get the bicycle out of storage and start enjoying some fresh air during your daily or weekly exercise habit. There’s nothing like cycling to work the lower body large muscles, but what have you got planned for your upper body workout?

Ever heard of Kayaking?

Kayaking affords you a great upper body workout, developing chest, shoulders and back muscles while increasing strength and endurance. Fighting rapid water or taking a slow and steady trip can really give your cardiovascular system a workout as well.

Kayaking is done on just about any type of water from rivers to lakes and the open sea. Canoeing is different from kayaking due to the fact that a canoe is an open vessel while the kayak has what is referred to as a closed cockpit.

Kayaking is popular amongst fishermen, divers and adventure sports enthusiasts due to the range and adaptability of the kayak. In fact, the sport of kayaking is growing in popularity so much that the price of kayaks has risen dramatically in recent years.

A very decent beginner’s level inflatable style kayak can be had for around $250. You can sometimes find them at Costco or at a sporting goods store. There are cheaper versions, but like bicycles, you don’t want to start with the $59 version if you seriously want to include kayaking in your fitness routine. $700-$1,000 can buy you a single-man kayak for recreational paddling of all skill levels, for ocean or fresh water. Prices go up from there depending on your skill level and style of use.

The more expensive models are lighter and easier to maneuver in and out of the water. They also become more stable as the engineering improves. Should you become a serious kayaker and want better equipment, consider purchasing a used kayak to get a better price point.

The five categories that kayaks are classified into are determined by intended use of the boat. There are general recreation styles, day trip and touring-expedition models, whitewater and surf classes. Pricing fluctuates by class and usability.

But, kayaking does not have to be expensive. And, you don’t have to be on whitewater rapids for it to be a great workout. Like cycling, it increases endurance and upper body strength. You learn to make good choices on the water to successfully navigate your path safely whether on a still lake or a more challenging river.

If enjoying the outdoors while meeting your health and fitness demands sounds appealing, give your upper body a workout and try kayaking.

Tags: Kayaking

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