Exercise your arms and core muscles by taking advantage of one of the many rowing opportunities offered by Maryland's waterways. Take in the lush countryside while leisurely rowing over a calm lake--or speed over more turbulent waters in a kayak designed for that purpose. Lakes large and small offer enjoyment to boat lovers and exercise buffs alike. Some lakes are situated near shopping centers--others in quiet, out-of-the-way places.
Creation of the Lakes
According to the Maryland Geological Survey, established in 1834, all lakes in Maryland were built by humans through the damming of rivers. Natural lakes existed 14,000 to 19,000 years ago--in the Pleistocene period--and were the result of pockets left behind by glaciers, faulting or volcanic activity, none of which occurred in the area where Maryland is now situated. Many of Maryland's lakes are referred to as reservoirs but are called lakes if their main function is recreation.
Lake Regions
Fish in Garrett County's Deep Creek Lake in the Western region of the state. Row from there to the Lakeside Creamery, where 90 flavors of ice cream are made on the premises--with milk from local dairy cows. For serenity, try Triadelphia Reservoir in the capital region, where power boats are not allowed. Find an abundance of aquatic vegetation at Urieville Lake in Kent County to the east. Go south to rent rowboats, paddle boats, canoes and aqua bikes at Wheatley Lake in Charles County. Sparkling reservoirs fill Maryland's central region.
Rowing and Fishing
The structure of a rowboat is conducive to skimming along a lake. Adding a sail will mean less rowing and more speed and is not advisable for fishing. A rowboat without a sail is quiet enough to not scare the fish. Visitors can find quiet waters at Carroll County's Piney Run Reservoir, where swimming is not allowed--although picnics and other activities take place on adjacent grounds. Row out to the middle of the reservoir for peace and quiet. Always bring a life vest, even in shallow waters.
Physical Benefits
Fresh air and sunshine, combined with upper body exercise, benefit rowers of all ages and walks of life. Tone up flabby arms and condition muscles in the chest, abdomen, shoulders and upper back while doing an aerobic rowing workout. Sunshine--an ample source of vitamin D--complements the effects of fresh air on the system.
Other Benefits
Enjoy the psychological benefits of being away from the usual stresses of daily life. If you love quiet contemplation, consider New Germany Lake in Garrett County, often overlooked due to its small size. Nestled in the mountains, Savage River Reservoir--also in Garrett County--is another quiet place where power boats are banned and natural beauty abounds.
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