5 Health Benefits of Canoeing and Kayaking
By Brandi Swieter
As the summer approaches, more and more people take to the water to enjoy the warm air while still keeping cool. Many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy canoeing and kayaking because it gets them outside while also giving them a way to exercise in a fun manner. Both activities bring health benefits that some may be unaware of, but can benefit from greatly.
Increased Muscle Strength
Kayaking involves the use of the arms in particular, but the activity can also strengthen the back, shoulders, and chest. Canoeing is the same, targeting the upper body in a low-impact workout that produces great results. Regular use of these muscle groups will improve strength and increase muscle mass, which helps to burn fat faster.
Reduced Stress
Exercise of any form provides a great way to reduce stress. Being outdoors also helps reduce stress. Combine the two together in the form of a relaxing activity that is kayaking or canoeing and people are bound to experience a tension-free day. People often feel calm and relaxed while out on the water, so simply paddling out to a spot and sitting for awhile can be a great way to de-stress after hard times.
Calories Burned
Because canoeing and kayaking require a great deal of strength, and work several muscle groups at once, people can expect to burn many calories during an excursion. Just one hour of these activities can burn between 300 and 400 calories. Spend several hours or more kayaking or canoeing and there could be nearly a day’s worth of calories burned.
Improved Mood
Feeling down or having a bad day? Head out kayaking or canoeing to improve mood. The brain releases certain chemicals during aerobic exercise that can help to enhance mood. Anyone with symptoms of depression or anxiety, or who are otherwise just feeling upset, can benefit greatly from the outdoor exercise these activities bring.
Healthy Heart
Thanks to the Vitamin D taken in from the sun, the aerobic form of exercise the activities bring, and stress relief, canoeing and kayaking are excellent for improving heart health. Those looking to gain a healthy heart should start out by taking their watercrafts to the nearest lake or river and getting out to explore. Enjoy the scenery and the ride out there and increase heart strength in the process.
A day spent canoeing or kayaking can be great for the body. Individuals should try these activities more often throughout the warm weather months to get all the advantages they can.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in American Fork, Utah.
