Whether gliding through the waves or across a serene lake, kayaking is a fun and accessible way to get out into nature’s waterways. Here are some basic tips to help you push off and get kayaking.
How to Physically Prepare for Kayaking
Swimming
Since you’ll be on the water, the ability to swim is helpful – overturning your kayak is not uncommon. Whether or not you know how to swim, any service that takes you out kayaking will equip you with a personal flotation device. However, if you’re not taking a lesson or going on a tour, it’s highly recommended to go with a group of experienced people and be mindful of the conditions.
Upper Body
Upper body strength is essential to kayaking. If you’re worried about your ability to paddle for long periods, push-ups and pull-ups are a great exercise to try. Pull-ups work your arms, back, core, and lats. Push-ups engage your arms and your core, complementing the pull-ups. Consistency and good form are key.
Core Muscles
However, kayaking often involves some degree of walking and transportation of the kayak. Therefore, you want to also work on the overall fitness necessary for carrying heavy, bulky items and hiking comfortably.
One exercise that you should try is called farmer’s walk. This works out your core muscles, allowing you to keep your upper body stable. This is useful when carrying your kayak, and also maintaining good, upright posture while on the water.
While standing at the edge of a flat surface, pick up one dumbbell with one hand, lifting it with your knees. As you stand up, engage the muscles in your stomach and upper body and stand with good posture. Walk slowly, holding the dumbbell with a stable arm, keeping your core engaged. This will exercise your arm, core, and hips. Repeat this exercise several times, alternating the arm holding the dumbbell.
Although it’s best to do these exercises regularly, any little bit helps – don’t let lack of experience stop you from starting!
What Equipment and Gear Should You Consider?
Kayak
Good news: you don’t have to buy a kayak just to try out the sport. You can often find locations that rent kayaks by the hour or by the day. If you sign up for a guided tour or lesson, these services also provide you with kayaks, paddles, and other essential equipment.
Safety Gear
If you’re going on a guided expedition or renting a kayak these will likely be provided to you. However, if you’re bringing your kayak, you will need a paddle, bilge pump, and spray skirt. Most importantly, you’ll need a personal flotation device that fits you and is approved by the Coast Guard. Safety gear is an essential part when kayaking.
Clothing
Since you’ll be on the water, swimwear is recommended. If it’s sunny, covering up with a hat, rashguard, and shorts is advisable. If it’s very cold – below 60 degrees Fahrenheit – you’ll want to wear a wetsuit.
Personal Items
Bring only the essentials – you don’t want to risk losing something valuable to the bottom of the ocean or lake. Bring water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized during your adventure. Sunscreen is also important for any outdoor activity. Other things to consider bringing are a first aid kit, distress whistle, watch, headlamp, and waterproof bags to carry your phone or wallet.
Should you go on a self-guided or guided tour?
Safety is paramount when on the water. If you’re new to kayaking, it’s best to either go on a guided tour or with a group of experienced kayakers. This is a great way to see and learn the basic movements of kayaking. It also ensures that you’ll have a safe place to try and learn new techniques.
The most important thing is to have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the view from the water!
