fitness paddling: exercise, train, race by kayak & canoe

• Myth #1: Most conditioning exercises should be performed in a seated position.

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• Myth #2: Only an unstable surface can prepare for the demands of paddle sports.

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• Myth #3: Legs and hips are not important in paddling.

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• Myth #4: Most of the exercises should imitate the paddling position and motion as closely as possible.

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• Myth #5: Paddling itself is enough for upper body conditioning.

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Questions are often raised on the importance of conditioning for some outdoor sports. One may think that as extreme sports are often intense and total by nature, add on conditioning would not be necessary. You cannot get around the fact that the sport itself will not prepare you best for the sport. You cannot become a kayaker by lifting dumbbells, just like you cannot become a climber by doing push ups. The connection between specific movement patterns and the body’s ability to perform can only be produced in the particular movements of the sport itself. Only the sport itself trains the body in the right ratio of different motor components. For example, rock climbing involves strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, endurance and power in a specific formula that can only be reached by climbing. However, the human body seems to require a diverse combination of stimulations to become an optimally performing specimen, and that is where conditioning comes into the picture. This is supported by the fact that every single successful athlete dedicates a considerable amount of time and effort into programmed sport conditioning.

Related posts:

• Training Tips and Guildelines for Fitness Paddlers and Racers
• 9 Tips to Speed Up Recovery After Long Paddle Training by Tommy Yonley
• 13 Tips on Training for Endurance Paddling Races from West Hansen

Technorati tags: outdoor training conditioning paddle sports Tommi Paavola paddling