Say NO To Sore B's when Paddling

That’s right, you read it correctly!  Say No to sore B’s.  The B’s being your Butt and your Back of course!  Let’s face it, as kayak anglers we love being on the water and chasing our new personal best.  This usually means we are out for a number of hours and usually sitting down for the majority of that time.  While companies have vastly improved the seats to help keep us comfortable as long as possible our butts and back still get sore!  Say NO to the soreness and give this ONE easy stretch you can do while you’re in your kayak.

First, put your rods in their holders or strap them to your kayak.  Also, strap your paddle to your kayak or place it by your feet.  Sit tall in the seat and have your feet flat against the floor of your yak.  To do this you will need to bring your feet closer to the chair.  Then put the calf of your left leg on top of the quad of your right leg.  You may need to help it up with your arms.  Keep your back tall and lean forward over your left calf.  You should feel the stretch in your left butt cheek and lower back.  Exhale and breath deep for a couple breaths.  Then put your left leg down and change legs.  

If you are unable to get your calf on top of the your quads, then keep your feet flat against the floor and lean forward keeping your back tall.  You should feel the stretch in your lower back and buttocks!

Want more? Then as you lean forward twist outward so you head and shoulders turn towards the leg that is planted firmly on the kayak.

Try this move when you start to feel the soreness start to set it!  Where do you get sore when kayak fishing?  Let me know in the comments or tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can help you (and others) find ways to relieve it!

Who Woulda' Thunk?! Benefits of Getting Outside

Raise your hand if you knew being outside was good for you.  (HAND UP!!!)  I’ve been told since I was a kid that being outside is good for me.  I always thought that it was a way to get me out of the house and not in my parents way but there are actually health benefits to getting outside.  And for us kayak anglers, hikers, snowshoers it’s just another reason to leave the confines of our house and head out!  So check out these benefits:

1)You’ll sleep better!

Did you know that our body has a rhythm to it?  You’ve probably heard about your internal clock, you know the thing that gets you up even when your alarm isn’t set.  Well this clock is timed with the sunrise and sunset.  By being outside your body can adjust and get into the rhythms of nature.  This is especially important for folks who spend a lot of time on the computer or electronics.  Get outside, and let your clock adjust.  You’ll find that you’ll sleep better and more sound than before!

2) Eyes

Ever hear the song with the lyrics “My Future’s so Bright, I gotta wear shades”.  I’m quoting from memory, so hopefully that’s right.  In any case, if you are stuck inside looking at something close to you, like a computer, phone etc. for hours on end then you are at risk of becoming near sighted.  Even just 2 hours puts you at risk.  How do you counter it?  Get outside, look around, and focus on objects that are farther away.  Ok, sure, you can do this inside as well, but really, get outside!  It’s much more fun!  And please wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the UV rays!

3) Stress Reduction

Have you ever had the experience of smelling something and it triggering a memory.  Smells are amazing.  They can cause you to remember certain sights, sounds, AND they can help you relieve stress.  Walking outside and smelling the fresh air helps calm the body and mind down.  No one really knows the reason how it happens, but it works.  Especially if you are able to walk in a woods, by a lake, just nature in general.  Even outside in a city works, but getting to a park or place away from a city can do even more.  Get out, breath deep, and relax.

4) Promotes Exercise

Now hold on to your seat, exercise!  Wait, I never mention that! Oh yeah, I kind of do.  Well, even if you’re not into busting out p90x you can still head outside.  It’s hard not to move when you’re outside.  Whether a walk, jog, hike, or even yoga, being outside almost makes one want to move.  

So let’s all get outside and improve ourselves surrounded by nature!