Inflatable Kayak Blog

Contributed by Sheryl Brennan

In a blog post yesterday, we focused on some upper body stretches to help with flexibility for kayakers and to build some stamina during the off-season. Now that we’ve given that upper body some attention, let’s not neglect that lower body. Hamstrings, hips, groin, and glutes need sufficient attention to achieve optimum form, as well. Try these simple stretches to keep that lower half lithe:

Lunging Stretch: Keep the knee directly over the heel, and breathe deeply while pressing hips down toward the ground. You should feel this stretch in the hips, glutes and front thighs.

Sitting Twist: Sit on the ground with your right leg crossed over the left and left hand resting on the ground. Use your right elbow to gently press against the right knee. Hold for about 30 seconds, and repeat for the other leg. This helps to stretch the buttocks and spinal rotator muscles.

Cat Stretch: On hands and knees and with feet together, press the center of your back upward and hold for 30 seconds, breathing deeply. Follow this with the back arch.

Back Arch: Maintaining initial cat stretch position, press your mid to upper abdomen toward the ground and hold comfortably for 30 seconds while breathing deeply. Go ahead, let out a M-E-O-W. No one is listening!

There now. Feel better? Regular stretching can also reduce stress, resulting in a better night’s sleep. And by increasing flexibility, extension, and range of motion you’ll be better prepared for the water sport season.  And by the time you put your traditional or inflatable kayak in the water, you’ll find you can paddle further forward and draw through a greater range.

Sheryl Brennan is the author of Celtic Sacrifice, single mother of three rambunctious pre-teen girls, and an avid outdoors woman. Read more about Sheryl at www.sherylbrennan.com.