A kayak is an enclosed boat that is propelled by using a double-sided paddle. The kayaker sits inside the kayak with his legs straight in front of him, and uses his upper body to move the craft through the water. Kayaking takes a tremendous amount of upper body strength, but is considered a low-impact sport, according to the Australian government's Better Health Channel (BHC). The benefits of kayaking include improving a person's physical and mental health.
Tones and Strengthens Muscles
Paddling a kayak employs most of a person's upper body muscles, according to NGR Outdoors, a service of the Penn State Hershey Center for Nutrition and Activity Promotion. The repetitive motions of paddling--approximately 500 strokes are needed to propel the boat one mile--tone and strengthen the muscles and burn calories, too.
Improves Joint Health
The low impact movements of paddling a kayak can improve joint health in some people. The movement patterns used in kayaking improve range and motion and flexibility, which can keep the joints fluid and lubricated. The extra calories burned through the sport may function as a natural weight loss aid, which can also help tired and aching joints. The more weight a person carries, the more stress is placed on the joints, especially the knees and ankles.
Mental Health Benefits
Kayaking can reduce stress and promote relaxation. The smooth strokes upon the water can create a sense of calmness and a feeling of peace with nature, according to NRG Outdoors. Eastern Tennessee State University has developed a rehabilitation program, similar to a program at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, that allows military veterans to kayak. Disabled veterans who have lost limbs or suffered from spinal cord injuries learn to kayak as part of their physical and emotional healing.
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