There is something quite satisfying about dipping an oar or paddle into the water and pulling your craft along the surface. It is tough work that produces tangible results (getting from here to there). And while you add the calming element of nature and the camaraderie of working with others, rowing or pedaling becomes a terrific physical exertion with many health advantages. Still, it comes with some risks to think about.
Types of activities
Various water sports include rowing or paddling. Rowing might be done with one or two oars. You can row in a protracted boat called a shell that may accommodate two, 4 or eight people. You only run one oar on this setup. Or you may row two oars in a small boat called a scull that may accommodate one, two or 4 people.
Paddling refers to water sports that use paddles. Single paddles, with a flat blade at one end, canoeing, dragon boat racing (10 or 20 people in a protracted canoe-like boat decorated with dragon heads and tails) and paddle boarding (standing or kneeling). are utilized in a paddleboard, which looks like a large surfboard).
A double paddle, with blades at each ends, is utilized in kayaking. Types of kayaks range from wide, flat recreational kayaks to long, thin, streamlined kayaks called “surf skis” (a brand new trend amongst kayakers).
Benefits
Rowing and paddling have many health advantages.
They work in your heart and lungs. Aerobic exercise helps construct endurance and promotes cardiovascular health, mobility, higher mood and sharper cognition.
They promote socialization. Spending time with others combats loneliness and isolation, that are related to chronic illness and premature death.
They help manage stress. Exercising and spending time in nature relieves chronic stress – a explanation for chronic inflammation, chronic disease, and premature death.
Risks after 60
Although you could have jumped right into a boat years ago, you continue to have to take extra precautions and consider the physical risks of rowing or paddling. “These sports have a repetitive component. Paddling can put stress on the shoulder tendons,” says Frost. “Any sport is not a good idea if you already have tendinitis in the shoulder, elbow or wrist; diagnosed back problem such as disc injury or spinal stenosis; or previous back surgery.”
Sports will also be dangerous should you're not swimmer, haven't exercised in a protracted time, or have heart or lung disease. Check together with your doctor before engaging in any sports.
getting began
If you're concerned about paddling or rowing, Frost says paddling is perhaps the higher option to go, because it may be as easy or as difficult as you make it. However, rowing has an extended learning curve and is more physically demanding than paddling, so that you'll have to be in fine condition to try it. You must also wear sunblock and sunglasses. staying hydrated; And (during summer) limit your participation in activity to early morning or late afternoon, to avoid overheating.
If you need to try paddling, Frost suggests renting a variety of boat (like a canoe or kayak) that interests you and taking a lesson to see should you prefer it. For dragon boat racing or rowing, Frost says it's best to affix a neighborhood club that gives introductory courses and may put you in a ship with similarly experienced peers.
And while paddling and rowing could appear easy, do not forget that learning latest skills and constructing coordination takes time. “You may feel tension and stiffness in many parts of your body as it adjusts to new demands and forces,” says Frost. “So start slowly with short sessions, and build up your tolerance.”
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