5 Essential Fitness Kayaking Exercises for a Full-Body Workout

Do you love being out on the water and getting a good workout? If so, kayaking might be the perfect activity for you. Not only is it a great way to explore nature and get some fresh air, but it also provides a full-body workout that can help improve your strength, endurance, and overall fitness.

In this article, we’ll explore five essential fitness kayaking exercises that can help you achieve a great full-body workout. From targeting your core and arms to improving your balance and stability, these exercises are sure to challenge your body in a fun and engaging way.

1. Paddle Squats

To perform this exercise, position your kayak parallel to shore in shallow water. Step out of your kayak and stand beside it with your feet shoulder-width apart and facing forward. Hold your paddle in both hands with your arms extended above your head.

Now, simultaneously lower yourself into a squat position while keeping the paddle above your head. As you come back up to a standing position, use your paddle to perform a twisting motion, rotating your torso to the left and then to the right. Repeat this exercise for 10-15 reps.

2. Kayak Lunges

For this exercise, you will need to secure your kayak to a dock or other stable surface. Stand beside your kayak with your feet hip-width apart and your hands gripping the cockpit. Take a long step forward with your right foot, lowering yourself into a lunge position.

From this position, use your leg muscles and core to push yourself back up to a standing position. Repeat this lunge with your left foot, and continue alternating legs for 10-12 reps per side.

3. Paddle Push-Ups

This exercise is a great way to work your chest, shoulders, and triceps. Begin by placing your paddle parallel to shore in shallow water. From a kneeling position on your kayak, grip the paddle and position your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

Lower yourself slowly towards the paddle, bending your elbows and keeping your core engaged. Push back up to the starting position, using your arm muscles to complete the movement. Repeat for 10-12 reps.

4. Balancing Act

Balancing on a kayak can be a workout in itself, but taking it to the next level can provide even more benefits. To perform this exercise, start by standing on your kayak with your feet parallel and your hands by your sides.

Slowly lift your right foot off the kayak, holding the pose for 10-15 seconds. Repeat with your left foot, and then do this exercise for 2-3 sets.

5. Kayak Crunches

This exercise targets your core muscles, helping to improve your overall stability and balance on the water. Begin by laying on your back in your kayak, with your knees bent and your feet on the kayak. Hold your paddle above your head with both hands.

As you exhale, use your core muscles to lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the kayak. Simultaneously lift your legs towards your chest, keeping them bent. Lower your head, neck, and legs back down to the kayak and repeat for 10-12 reps.

Concluding Thoughts

Kayaking is a fun and challenging way to improve your fitness and overall health. By incorporating these five essential fitness kayaking exercises into your routine, you’ll be able to target your entire body and get a great full-body workout on the water.

Remember to always practice safety and be aware of your surroundings when kayaking. With time and practice, you will improve your skills and be able to take on even more challenging exercises on the water. So grab your paddle and get ready to take your fitness to the next level!