Kayaks are a versatile water sport that can be used for recreation, exercise or competition. There are kayaks for every environment and purpose, including whitewater, touring, fishing, sit-in or sit-on top, single or tandem and even adaptive options for people with physical or mobility challenges. Kayaks are a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors, but they also provide a wide range of health benefits for their users. These include increased strength and endurance, cardiovascular fitness, lower stress levels, improved mood and mental focus.
Kayaking is an excellent exercise for the lower back muscles, or lats. With each stroke of the paddle your lats are stretched and then contracted, helping you to build stronger and more powerful legs. Kayaking can also help to improve your balance and overall body coordination. This is because you need to be able to use all of your body’s muscles in order to paddle efficiently.
Compared to other sports, kayaking is low impact and can be done by people of all ages. It is also a low-cost activity, which can be enjoyed by the whole family. It can be practiced in the backyard or at a local lake or river. However, there are some things to keep in mind when selecting a kayak, such as its size, weight and shape. These factors will all affect the kayak’s handling and performance.
The first thing to consider when choosing a kayak is where you plan on using it. If you plan on kayaking in a lake or stream, a recreational sit-in or sit-on-top boat will work best. For lakes with some current, a shorter kayak with a skeg may be better suited to help you turn and track quickly in the current.
Another important consideration when selecting a kayak is its shape and construction. The material that a kayak is made of will have a big impact on its durability and price. Polyethylene is a popular choice because it is affordable, flexible and relatively abrasion-resistant. It is important to note that Polyethylene is susceptible to UV damage, so you will need to store your kayak in a dark area when not in use. Other materials include ABS, which is an upgrade from polyethylene in terms of UV protection, but it is also more expensive.
The thick resin construction of the Pakayak Bluefin and Oru Lake and Beach kayaks helps them glide over submerged objects without feeling them, whereas thinner-resin models bump on these items and slow your progress. The skeg on the stern of the kayaks also occasionally bumps on underwater debris, but it can be adjusted to avoid these obstacles. With all of these great features, the kayaks are easy to use and are a great choice for beginners or experienced kayakers alike. It’s never been easier to get out on the water and have a fun adventure. You’ll be glad you took up this wonderful activity!