Benefits of Kayaking and canoeing
Canoeing and kayaking are physical activities which involve paddling a craft through water. Notably, both are low impact; however, kayaking can be performed in rocky rivers. While they are mostly done as hobbies or for sport, they can improve strength, flexibility and aerobic fitness. One can paddle on lakes, seas or rivers. The terms are often used interchangeably, but they exhibit some differences, in a canoe one either sits or kneels inside the open vessel (Loeffler, 2018).By use of a single-bladed paddle, a person can push the craft comfortably in the water. On the other hand, a kayak is enclosed, and one sits inside with legs extended, a double bladed paddle is used. This paper seeks to determine the benefits of canoeing.
Canoeing involves paddling. It is a physical activity and is encouraged by many organizations throughout the world such as the British Canoeing Society. This is because of its many benefits to people of all ages as it is essential in keeping fitness. It is also observed as an excellent way to interact and bond with family and friends, and this improves ones mental health (Loeffler, 2018).
Benefits of canoeing
Physical health
The strength of the upper body can be improved by this activity as muscles of the arms and shoulders are involved. Researchers from Kingston University observed that experienced canoeists have more developed chests and forearms than their inexperienced partners. The torso and strength of the legs are improved as one rotates the craft using these areas of the body. There is also a reduced risk of tear on joints as paddling is not an aggressive activity.
Canoeing is highly regarded as it helps in burning calories; however, the ability to achieve this depends on the weight and pace of kayaking or canoeing. A study done at Manchester Metropolitan University noted that people who perform this activity demonstrated excellent heart strength. The size of a heart determines the efficiency of pumping blood around the body. Persons who paddle often have a larger left ventricle than sedentary people hence improved health (Loeffler, 2018).
Mental health
A disturbing report released by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth (ARACY) shows a rise in suicide rates in young adults specifically those between eighteen and twenty-four. Australia is known for good smoking rates; however, its bulling in youth and children is alarming. This has called for more investment to mitigate this vice. A reason for this bullying has been noted in the people referred to as “fat.” They have low self-worth and can have suicidal thoughts. Therefore, canoeing improves lean body composition. Notably, Australian researchers who published in the Journal of Science noted that low levels of body fat and body composition favors lean muscle mass in paddlers (Thomsen, Powell & Monz, 2018).
As a result, the affected people can have improved mental strength by boosting their confidence when they develop a lean body that can be achieved by canoeing. In the same way, it is observed as a way to commune with nature and release the stresses of life as it is termed peaceful and meditative. If someone is free of any infirmity especially that associated with non-communicable diseases they are deemed peaceful. Therefore, paddling improves the immunity of people and hence promotes their mental health.
Conclusion
Kayaking and canoeing are activities done for sport and hobbies. However, along they can improve strength, flexibility and aerobic fitness. Again, the rising rate of mental health issues can be significantly enhanced by communing with nature and enhancing physique by gaining a lean body. Therefore, it is recommended for people of all ages to engage such activities in reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases. Notably, before engaging in this activity, it is imperative for a person to join a local club so that they can gain experience in swimming. The weather should be put into consideration before kayaking or canoeing. Personal gear and protective equipment should be carried along as well as first aid kit.
References
White, M. P., Bell, S., Elliott, L. R., Jenkin, R., Wheeler, B. W., & Depledge, M. H. (2016). The health benefits of blue exercise in the UK. In Green Exercise (Vol. 69, No. 78, pp. 69-78). ROUTLEDGE in association with GSE Research.
Thomsen, J. M., Powell, R. B., & Monz, C. (2018). A Systematic Review of the Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Wildland Recreation. Journal of Park & Recreation Administration, 36(1).
Loeffler, T. A. (2018). Looking back, paddling forward: perspectives on outdoor expedition participation over the lifespan. Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning, 1-13.
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