Kayaking for exercise

Advice
#41

As a reasonably fit runner and cyclist, my experience is that 120 BPM is sustainable for a workout. I can certainly get to 150+, but unlike when running a 5K or cycling a time trial, I don’t find it sustainable. You’re using large muscle groups to do the work, and those muscles just aren’t moving that quickly. Think lifting versus cycling. You’ll get a higher BPM workout if you swim the water versus paddling it!

Note, I got into a flow state yesterday in my kayak. First time in flow state in a long time (sidelined by minor injury) and I think the first time in my kayak. Felt fantastic. For those who don’t know what “flow state” is, it’s kinda like being in the groove…all of a sudden everything gets easier and you’re just completely present to the task at hand. Runners, cyclists and swimmers aspire to finding it. :slight_smile:

#42

Hhhhmmmm, flow state. Been to that state many, many times as I was a long distance runner for years. I always thought it was a runner’s high–caused by endorphin release, but whatever it was, it’s kind of neat, but can be pesky. Years ago when we would take a long car trip, I would get this tremendous urge to stop the car and just run for awhile. I really never succumbed to the urge, but when we reached our daily destination, I was into my running outfit and gone for a few miles. I don’t think there is anything quite comparable to that in paddling.

#43

I’ve reached it running and on 20 mile hikes.

#44

Paddling anything gets more exercise than typing here.