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How Kayaking can Supercharge Your Fitness Journey

Imagine gliding through the water, surrounded by nature, as you navigate a winding river or
explore a serene lake. Kayaking is not just an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon outdoors; it
also offers numerous physical and mental health benefits.

This low-impact, full-body workout strengthens your muscles, improves cardiovascular fitness,
and challenges balance and coordination. Read on to discover why kayaking is an excellent
workout and the specific muscle groups it benefits.

Why Kayaking Is a Good Workout

1. Endurance and Stamina

The repetitive motion of paddling helps to build endurance and stamina as you constantly push
yourself to keep moving through the water. Over time, this can improve athletic performance in
other activities and better overall fitness.

2. Cardiovascular Fitness
Kayaking is an aerobic exercise that increases your heart rate and oxygen consumption.
Regular aerobic activity can improve your cardiovascular fitness, helping to reduce your risk of
heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.

3. Balance and Core Strength

Staying upright in a kayak requires constant adjustments and using your core muscles. This
helps improve your balance and stability, preventing injuries and improving performance in other
sports and daily activities.

4. Calorie Burning

Depending on the intensity and duration of your kayaking session, you can burn a significant
number of calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to lose or maintain a healthy
weight.

5. Low-impact Exercise

Unlike running or jumping, kayaking is gentle on your joints, making it an ideal workout for
people with joint pain or those recovering from injury. The buoyancy of the water supports your
body, reducing the strain on your joints as you paddle.

6. Balance and Coordination

Kayaking requires excellent balance and coordination, as you must constantly adjust your body
position to maintain stability in the water. These skills are essential for everyday life and can
help prevent falls and improve overall agility.

7. Mental Health Benefits

Being out on the water, surrounded by nature, can have a calming effect on your mind.
Kayaking is an excellent mindfulness practice and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Muscles Targeted During Kayaking

1. Upper Body

Arms, shoulders, and upper back all play an essential role in the paddling motion. As you propel
yourself through the water, you engage the muscles in your forearms, biceps, triceps, deltoids,
and latissimus dorsi (the large muscles in your back). Over time, kayaking can increase strength
and definition in these muscle groups.

2. Core

Your core muscles, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and lower back muscles, are also
engaged during kayaking. These muscles help maintain balance and stability while paddling
and are essential for generating power and maintaining proper technique.

3. Lower Body

Although your legs may not seem as involved in kayaking, they play a significant role in
maintaining stability and balance. As you paddle, you engage your hip flexors, quadriceps, and
hamstrings to help keep your lower body stable and maintain a strong base for your upper body
to work from. Over time, this can lead to increased strength and endurance in your lower body
muscles.

4. Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff muscles, a group of four muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, are also
utilised during kayaking. These muscles help to stabilise the shoulder and enable smooth and
efficient movement during the paddling motion.

5. Stabilizer Muscles

Kayaking also engages smaller stabiliser muscles throughout your body, such as those in your
wrists, ankles, and feet. These muscles help support your joints and maintain proper alignment
as you paddle, contributing to overall strength and stability.

Conclusion

Kayaking is not only a fun and enjoyable way to explore the great outdoors, but it also offers a
comprehensive, low-impact workout that engages your entire body. With cardiovascular,
strength, balance, and coordination benefits, kayaking is an excellent addition to any fitness
routine. So grab a paddle, hit the water, and enjoy the numerous physical and mental health
benefits kayaking offers!

Want to try kayaking along River Thames for yourself? Moose Canoe Hire Thames is the best
Canoe, Kayak, and Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) Rental Centre with our base on the River
Thames at Bisham Abbey. All our rental boats are stable, safe, clean and comfortable. Make a
booking to rent one today!

Introducing Your Kids to the Joys of Nature Through Kayaking

One of the best ways to help your kids appreciate, learn about, and connect with the
environment is through kayaking. Kayaking or canoeing in the River Thames helps kids develop a connection to nature, improve physical fitness and provide a fun, stimulating and educational experience.

Benefits of Kayaking

Kayaking has numerous physical, mental and emotional benefits for children, no matter their age. It’s also a great option to safely enjoy being in nature while social distancing. Here are some broadly recognized benefits of introducing your kids to the joys of nature through
kayaking:

Physically Strengthening: Kayaking helps children develop physical strength, coordination, balance and agility while also improving core and upper body strength, stamina and flexibility.

Not only that, but kayaking is also extremely accessible and can be enjoyed by anyone with
basic motor coordination, regardless of age or fitness level.

Mentally Stimulating: Kayaking presents opportunities to practise problem-solving,
decision-making, navigation, navigation and communication. Kids will also have lots of fun
discovering the local wildlife and developing an awareness of the environment.

Emotionally Liberating: Kayaking is a great way to help kids learn to regulate their
emotions, build their confidence and resilience and help manage anxiety and stress. In
addition, everyone can enjoy the calming effects of being on the water, connecting with
nature, and just being present.

Getting Started

Before taking your kids out kayaking, it’s important to consider safety, the right kinds of gear,how to prepare ahead of time and the various environments.

Safety

To keep your kids safe, it’s important to adhere to the following:

• Read up on kayaking safety and watch some instructional videos.

• Make sure kids are wearing the right safety gear, such as PFDs, helmets and proper
clothing & shoes.

• Always adhere to local regulations and ensure that the waterway is calm and suitable for
your group.

• If possible, take a kayaking class together to become familiar with the basics of kayaking.

Gear

In addition to safety gear, make sure to have the proper gear for kayaking. This includes the
kayaks, paddles and other necessary equipment, such as a spare paddle, first aid kit, bilge
pump, etc.

Preparation

Before heading out, make sure that both you and your kids are adequately prepared for the
trip. Ensure that everyone is dressed for the weather and has packed all the essential items,
including food, water, layers of clothes, insect repellent and sunscreen.

Environments

When taking your kids out kayaking, make sure you choose an environment that is suitable
for their age and experience. This can include river, lake or ocean environments. If you’re just starting out, avoid more challenging whitewater situations.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that kayaking is a great option to help your kids connect to nature, boost their physical and mental health, and engage them in a fun and safe outdoor activity. By adhering to safety guidelines, choosing the right gear, preparing ahead of time and keeping the environment in mind, the whole family can enjoy a safe and rewarding kayaking experience together.

If you want you and your family to have a truly unforgettable experience, consider going on a
kayaking trip through Moose Canoe Hire. Moose Canoe and SUP Hire Thames is the home of the best kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding trips in the River Thames. We offer a range of family-friendly,  self-guided trips to suit all ages and abilities. Try our kayak hire in the Thames today for an experience of a lifetime.

4 Main Things to Consider When Renting a Kayak

As kayaking continues to grow in popularity, more and more people are choosing to rent a
kayak instead of buying one. While renting a kayak can be an exciting and rewarding
experience, it is essential to ask the right questions before renting a kayak. Knowing the right
questions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone involved.
Four main questions should always be asked when renting a kayak:
1. Kayak Style to Rent
For those just starting with kayaking, it's essential to recognise the differences between different
kayaks. Recreational kayaks are the perfect choice for a beginner looking to rent a boat for a
short time on a calm lake. These kayaks are wide and provide great stability, giving you peace
of mind while you paddle. However, a touring kayak is a way if you're planning to take a longer
journey. These boats are designed with storage in mind and are much narrower, which makes
them better suited for open waters.
When renting a kayak, it's important to know the different sizes and types of kayaks available.
Longer kayaks are better for multi-week trips, as they can store more food and supplies. Shorter
kayaks are better for day trips. Sit-on-top kayaks are a great option for new kayakers, families,
or those who want to go fishing, as they provide more exposure to sun and water.
2. Solo Or Tandem
Decide if you want to kayak alone or with someone else. Tandem kayaks are great for those
who may be apprehensive but have a friend to paddle with for reassurance and support. It's
also a great option for paddling with a child who might not be ready to do it independently.
When renting a kayak, you can paddle with a companion in a tandem kayak or go solo in your
own boat. Experienced kayakers may enjoy practising their teamwork skills and making their
experience more meaningful. If the tandem experience doesn't work out, you can always switch
to a solo kayak on your next rental.
3. Guided or Paddle By Yourself
If you're an outdoors enthusiast seeking a thrilling excursion to explore the beauty of nature, you
can seek out a kayak rental shop. From beginner lessons to more advanced skill clinics, they
can provide the guidance and instruction needed for a safe and enjoyable journey. An outfitter
can be hired to accompany you, offering tips and insights about the area for an even more
memorable experience.
If you want to hit the water with a kayak, you can explore independently or follow a route
outlined by an experienced guide. Renting a boat and necessary equipment is available at many
kayaking shops, and many of them also provide shuttles to get you back to the starting point.

4. Ensure Everything Is Working
This guide can help you inspect a kayak before you take it on a long journey. Look over the
exterior of the kayak and check for any major dents or scratches that could impact its
performance. Make sure that the inner outfitting of the kayak is not damaged. Test the skeg or
rudder to ensure that it works properly.
Ensure the grab loop is secure, that the skirt has no holes, that the hatches open and close
correctly, and that all deck rigging is in place. This can give you peace of mind when you take
the kayak out for a long trip, so you can rest assured that it will function as expected.
Conclusion
Renting a kayak is a great way to explore the outdoors and have fun. It is important to ask the
right questions and consider the essential factors before committing to a rental. This ensures
that you can make an informed decision on which kayak rental best suits your needs and
budget.
Moose Canoe Hire is the friendly canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rental centre
with our base on the River Thames at Bisham Abbey near Marlow. We love the River Thames
and will do our very best to offer you the best service and experience possible. If you’re looking
for a kayak for hire on the River Thames, look no further! Book online now!

Marlow back to Marlow – 1 Day – Double Sit on Top Kayak Hire

£58 per Double Kayak

Z

1 Day

Z

Children passengers 7 yrs upwards

Z

Weekends / Mid week / Bank Holidays

Z

Free Onsite Parking

Z

Buoyancy Aids Included

Z

Gentle / Mid/ Hard to Suit

Z

Groups

Perfect for Families and a Leisurely Day Out on The River 
Weekdays and Weekends 

DETAILS:
You choose how far you want to go and return when you wish by 5.30pm.

You’ll experience the beautiful and peaceful Hurley/Medmenham Reach. 

Great for our adult customers with children (6yrs+) , and people who want to experience kayaking and just go with the flow. 

You can mix with SUPs and Canoes in our booking system

You will launch and exit from our Base at Bisham Abbey, Marlow. 
Take advantage of our On-Site FREE parking,

We normally suggest that you head upstream through Temple lock and Hurley lock, and paddle up through the islands towards Hambleden. 

There are pubs and an ice cream place along the way at Hurley and it’s just a short walk to the world famous Flower Pot Pub at Aston from their jetty.  

FAQ’s

Have A Question? CLICK HERE
*There are a couple of days in the year when we cannot use our base due to various reasons. You will be informed at the time of booking, and we will launch from Marlow Slipway on such occasions. 

Marlow back to Marlow – 1 Day – Single Sit on Top Kayak Hire

£50 per Kayak

Z

1 Day

Z

Children 14 yrs upwards

Z

Weekends / Mid week / Bank Holidays

Z

Free Onsite Parking

Z

Buoyancy Aids Included

Z

Gentle / Mid/ Hard to Suit

Z

Groups

Perfect for Families and a Leisurely Day Out on The River 
Weekdays and Weekends 

DETAILS:
You choose how far you want to go and return when you wish by 5.30 pm.

You’ll experience the beautiful and peaceful Hurley/Medmenham Reach. 

Great for our adult customers with older children (14yrs+) , and people who want to experience kayaking and just go with the flow. 

You can mix with SUPs and Canoes in our booking system

You will launch and exit from our Base at Bisham Abbey, Marlow*. 
Take advantage of our On-Site FREE parking,

We normally suggest that you head upstream through Temple lock and Hurley lock, and paddle up through the islands towards Hambleden. 

There are pubs and an ice cream place along the way at Hurley and it’s just a short walk to the world famous Flower Pot Pub at Aston.  

FAQ’s

Have A Question? CLICK HERE
*There are a couple of days in the year when we cannot use our base due to various reasons. You will be informed at the time of booking, and we will launch from Marlow Slipway on such occasions. 
BOOK NOW