Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports. It originated as a means for hunters to easily search for prey while moving across water. Hunters used simple tools like sharpened sticks or bones to paddle across the water. Over time, they started using animal skins stretched over wooden frames to build sophisticated kayaks that could also hold small cargo.
Kayaks were used by people living in the northern parts of Europe and natives of Alaska. The word kayak meant “hunter’s boat” in the Greenlandic language
The boats were also used for facilitating merchants in the trade as they were quick and easy to maneuver. Since then, kayaking has become popular worldwide as a recreational activity. It is a competitive sport where people compete to excel at their craft.
Why People Loved Kayaks?
The combination of leather and wood made the kayaks flexible to prevent damage when hitting obstacles in the water, such as rocks. Later on, people started using canvas instead of leather as the canvas weighs lighter than leather. In the 1930s, people started using fiberglass to build kayaks because fiberglass as it was lighter and more durable.
The Spread of Kayaking
John MacGregor played a key role in the popularity of modern kayaks in Europe and beyond. In 1866, MacGregor published A Thousand Miles in a Rob Roy Canoe, describing his canoeing adventures across Europe and Russia. The book inspired people across Europe to take up canoeing and kayaking. In 1924 kayaking/canoeing debuted at the Olympics.
Loved by Fitness Enthusiasts
Kayaking is loved by fitness enthusiasts who credit it for remarkable mental and physical gains. People who participate in the activity or sport experience improvements in the following:
Cardiovascular Health
Kayaking is a sport that has many health benefits that contribute to an overall healthy lifestyle. This sport can benefit your heart health and improve cardiovascular health. When you are kayaking, you use all the major muscles while paddling. Using these muscle groups increases your heart rate, which helps reduce the risk of developing coronary artery disease. Blood circulation also improves throughout your body, preventing blood clots from forming.
Strengthens Muscles
Kayaking is a great workout for your body. The sport strengthens your shoulders, arms, back, and abdomen muscles. Using these muscles means that more calories are burned, reducing your chances of being overweight or obese. You are also likely to feel stronger because you use your whole upper body while participating in this activity. This makes it easier for you to carry out everyday activities like lifting groceries from your car or carrying suitcases when traveling.
Improves Overall Health
Going out in the water 3-5 times a week helps you stay in great shape. Kayaking is also a low-impact exercise that people of all ages can easily do. Along with helping with your physical health, kayaking can help with your mental health and improve your balance and coordination. Getting in and out of the boat takes some balance. When you are paddling, you need coordination. Your arms work with each other instead of against each other, helping you maintain balance.
Kayaking can help relieve stress and anxiety since you can get away from everything that is going on around you, including cell phones and social media. It’s also an excellent way to spend time outdoors with friends, family, or even alone.
Best Places to Kayak in America
The best part of kayaking is enjoying being outside while exercising. There are many places to kayak in the US, such as different rivers, lakes, and oceans.
The best kayaking spots in America vary depending on what you’re looking for. Some kayakers prefer fast-moving water with plenty of rapids, while others seek smoother sailing on tranquil lakes and ponds. Where you go kayaking in America also depends on the scenery, difficulty Level, wildlife sightings, and more. What makes a great kayaking spot depends on your individual preferences and abilities.
For beginners, Tyger River is ideal as the rapids are gentle. The river is perfect if you want to bring your family and kids along. The Chesapeake Bay is another great option and flows 200 miles long. Many people fish in the river while they are on a kayak or a canoe.
Another great place is the Colorado River, on which you will also be able to see the majestic Grand Canyon. If you are an expert at kayaking, then Devils River would provide you with a challenge as it has very strong rapids.
Get the Best Kayaking Equipment Today
If you are just getting started with kayaking and aren’t sure what gear to buy, our team at Outdoor Trends can help. Our website is an excellent resource with tons of information. We offer product recommendations for the best equipment and gear possible for an optimal experience. Our product reviews include the best river fishing kayaks for 2022, best e-bikes of 2022 for commuting, best budget mountain bikes, best hiking and backpacking drones for 2022, electric skateboards, and professional hoverboards. We have products for everyone, including beginners and pros, that help you strengthen your upper body and increase muscle tone.
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