Fitness Paddle

FITNESS FOR KAYAKING and KAYAKING FOR FITNESS go hand in hand. One can gradually work from an average state of "fitness" and paddle into shape as long as fundamental biomechanical movements involving posture, breath and technique are adhered to. A gradual increase in time and intensity on the water is advised.

Kayaking involves the entire body and the entire range of fitness characteristics including; strength, flexibility, balance, speed, and cardiovascular endurance. Moreover, it involves a potentially higher level of mindfulness and "grace under pressure" than many other conventional sports and fitness pursuits. Some people, who have witnessed MKC's Paddle Basics Classes, thought they were watching a Tai Chi Class. Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi and other mind over matter concepts and classes have reached New Yorkers and that awareness integrates well into kayaking. Kayaking is a classic merger between Yin (soft/receptive/flowing) and Yang (hard, aggressive, assertive) fitness pursuits.

Different types of kayaking emphasize different fitness categories more than others. (See Explanations on CardioFit and Skill Fit paddling classes). Kayaking can be a perfect complement for your other activities. If you run or cycle, kayaking may be just the right thing to balance your world.

If you can't do impact sports, then kayaking can replace a lost fitness love (like hockey or marathons). Kayaking will definitely enhance other sports from baseball to golf as core utilization and torso rotation are essential to the sport. Tennis players are happily surprised to watch their strokes become more solid. Finally, kayaking merges you with a natural environment in open surroundings. "Fresh air and sunshine" can go a long, long way to setting you straight and making the hustle and bustle of the city more manageable. Outdoor fitness integrates elements that indoor fitness programs really and truly never can.