Why Is Kayaking Good For You?

Riverbend Staff • Feb 11, 2024

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.

A float trip along the Illinois River promises a day full of great memories. Wearing the correct gea
By Riverbend Staff 09 Apr, 2024
A float trip along the Illinois River with Riverbend Floats promises a day full of sunlight, cooler water, and great memories. Whether tubing for fun, hiking, or kayaking for adventure, wearing the correct gear will help you stay comfortable and enjoy the scenery. From practical considerations to essential items and packing list, let's look at the best float trip attire and helpful tips for your Illinois stream raft excursion with Riverbend Floats, which is located in Oklahoma's picturesque Illinois River corridor in the center of the best float and recreation area in the Oklahoma Ozarks. We are the top-rated outfitter on the Illinois River, known for our exceptional customer service. Our equipment, grounds, and restrooms are extremely clean and a source of pride.
5 Tips To Beat The Heat On A Rafting Trip In Tahlequah
By Riverbend Staff 24 Jan, 2024
It is important to plan and prepare for the heat before embarking on an exciting rafting trip down the Illinois River in Oklahoma and explore the outdoors.
With Oklahoma's unpredictable weather and its uncontrollable effects on Tahlequah's Illinois River w
By Riverbend Staff 02 Dec, 2023
With Oklahoma's unpredictable weather and its uncontrollable effects on Tahlequah's Illinois River water level, it’s important to consider safety guidelines.
What Grub To Bring: Float Trip Food Ideas - Riverbend
By Riverbend Staff 12 Nov, 2023
Your choice of float trip snacks should be energy-giving and thirst-quenching, such as bottled beverages, finger foods or sandwiches that do not require a dish.
Is An Inner Tube Float Trip More Enjoyable Than Rafting
By Riverbend Staff 13 Oct, 2023
Being in nature is such a wonderful feeling, especially when exploring water sports like river tubing. It can boost your adrenaline like other water activities.
Types of Tubes for River Tubing
By Riverbend Staff 13 Sep, 2023
Floating downstream on a tube is a great way to beat the heat and enjoy the sights of nature in Tahlequah, OK.
Floater's Guide To Illinois River
By Riverbend Staff 02 Aug, 2023
Plan your leisure trip in advance so that you’ll have memorable travels with friends and family. you’ll have a great time on this famous river in Tahlequah.
Rules and Guidelines On The Illinois River
02 Jul, 2023
Make your floating or camping trip more fun and memorable by bringing the right gear, and being safe on the lake. we can bring you to places where fun awaits.
Tahlequah Float History
By Riverbend Staff 02 Jun, 2023
Have a fun time with family and friends by getting on top of your kayaks, canoes, and rafts, as many business establishments offer top-notch lodging.
Share by: