If you follow me on social media, you will be aware that I have recently been diagnosed as having moderate (stage 3) osteoarthritis and baker cysts in both knees. Furthermore, I have a meniscus tear in my right knee and an ongoing lower back issue which is still being investigated. In light of these physical health issues, I will shortly be making a video about kayaking with these physical impairments, and the equipment I use to assist me to continue to enjoy this activity without further aggravating them.
Does osteoarthritis get better or worse with exercise?
Exercise is considered the most effective, Non-pharmacological treatment for reducing pain and improving movement in people suffering from osteoarthritis. Walking, biking, swimming, and yoga, are all good aerobic exercises for people with osteoarthritis.
First, let's have a look at some of the benefits of kayaking.
Specific health benefits of kayaking:
Along with simply being a fun and enjoyable activity, kayaking has numerous health and physical benefits.
- Improved cardiovascular fitness.
- Increased muscle strength, particularly in the back, arms, shoulders, and chest, from moving the paddle.
- Increased torso and leg strength, as the strength to power a canoe or kayak comes mainly from rotating the torso and applying pressure with your legs.
- Weight Management.
- Better Endurance.
- Mood Boost.
- Improved Focus.
Is kayaking hard on your knees?
Kayaking is an excellent activity for those with bad knees who want to get out in nature and explore again. When you're out on the water (especially if flatwater kayaking) in a kayak, you will mostly use your upper body to get moving, so this activity puts minimal strain on your knees.
Is Kayaking Bad For Your Back?
Kayaking, when done right, does not lead to a back injury. This said, you will have to transport your craft to the water then mount your seat and load your gear. Lastly, the bulk of the effort is in the paddling. Also, you may have to portage at locks and weirs on rivers and canals.
- Warm up, and stretch Before and After Your Trip.
- Set Your Kayak Up for Comfort
- A comfortable, supportive seat.
- Maintain Correct Posture
- Sit upright. Relax your shoulders while keeping your spine tall. Keep your head up and lean forward just a little bit, balancing your centre of gravity.
- Don’t straighten your legs, your legs should be slightly bent at the knees or whatever gives you the best balance. Don’t forget to stretch now and then to avoid knee and backache.
- Keep everything to hand that you think you may need while out on the water.
- Look for Opportunities to Change Positions or exit the kayak to stretch and rest.
1: Kayak Trolley
A kayak trolley is a great aid if you have to transport your kayak and kit some distance to the water, I will also use my trolley if I know that I will need to portage several times at weirs and locks.
2: High Back Cushioned Kayak Seat
With a 75mm foam cushion and wrap-around supportive back, this seat is incredibly comfortable.
3: Gel Cushion
I place this cushion under my seat for extra cushioning, but it also doubles up as a kneeling pad.
4: Bungee Dock Line
Fitted at the bow and stern, this 120cm dock line relieves the pressure from my back when lifting the kayak out of the water from canoe platforms or river banks.
5: 12V (20psi) Pump
One way to really aggravate a back issue is to inflate a high-pressure kayak with a hand pump. Also, using a 12V pump allows me to get on with other tasks while the pump inflates the kayak.
6: Power Station
Simply, portable power that allows me to set up away from my vehicle. I carry a manual pump on the kayak for emergencies while out on the water, the power station and 12V pump are packed away in the car.
7: 39cm Folding Plastic Stools
Cheap and lightweight, these stools are used when fitting out the kayak. I also use them when washing down my kayaks and kit.
