As summer trails on and the temperature heats up, more and more of us are trying to get in the water as often as we can. The summer provides a great opportunity to try water activities that you wouldn't normally be able to in the winter.
If you're looking to change up your fitness routine in the last few weeks of summer, we've got just the thing. Water sports combine exercise with adventure and boast many physical and mental health benefits. Whether you're aiming for a full-body workout, muscle toning, or just an escape from the heat, water sports have something for everyone. Let's check out three popular water sports to try before summer ends and where you can find them.
1. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Modern stand-up paddleboarding is thought to have developed in Hawaii, branching off of surfing. But the sport has actually been around for thousands of years, with many different cultures claiming its origin.
Today, stand-up paddleboarding is what it sounds like, standing on a surfboard and using a paddle to move around—it's a mix of surfing and paddling. One distinguishing factor of SUP is the surfboards used are typically longer than average surfboards. This activity has now become the world's fastest-growing water sport.
SUP is a great water sport to add to your summer list for many reasons. Unlike surfing, you don't need waves for SUP. You can take part in this sport over any body of water, including lakes, rivers, and of course, oceans.
SUP is also a low-impact activity that engages the core, upper body, and lower body muscles, including the glutes and lower leg muscles. Studies show it can improve cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and psychological health.
SUP is considered both a form of endurance and strength training, as it will test your stamina while working your muscles.
The activity is also great for balance and coordination. Stand-up paddleboarding allows you to connect with nature and can offer a meditative experience for many. It's perfect for those who want a relaxing outdoor workout immersed in nature.
You can find the activity in many different parks and recreation centers, rivers and lakes, beaches, and local marinas and yacht clubs.
Some popular spots for SUP in Canada are Lake Louise in Alberta, Lake Okanagan in British Columbia, and Toronto Islands in Ontario.
2. Kayaking/Canoeing
Kayaking and Canoeing are popular sports that involve paddling in a small watercraft in a body of water. The two sports are very similar, with the major difference being the type of watercraft used. Like stand-up paddleboarding, they are considered forms of endurance and strength training. Kayaking/canoeing can also be considered a good form of cardio. The sport offers some impressive physical and mental health benefits.
Similar to swimming, kayaking and canoeing are great forms of low-impact, aerobic exercise. These activities will support muscle growth and improve strength and flexibility.
Kayaking/canoeing will provide an excellent upper body workout, targeting the arms, shoulders, and back. It also helps improve cardiovascular fitness.
Kayaking and canoeing are great water sports to try for beginners, as you can start off easy and work your way up to a higher difficulty level. Like stand-up paddleboarding, the sport can be done on any body of water.
Many enjoy kayaking and canoeing on rivers, lakes, and in the ocean. The sport can be a wonderful way to sightsee and explore different lake systems.
Some top spots for kayaking/canoeing in Canada are Lake Louise in Banff National Park, the Yukon River in Yukon territory, and Lake Moraine in Banff National Park.
3. Snorkelling
Last but not least, snorkelling is a must-try water sport before summer's over.
Snorkelling involves swimming just underneath the surface of large bodies of water and using a snorkel to breathe. This allows you to explore underwater life and ecosystems without specialized equipment and training.
Snorkelling is perfect for beginners who are interested in exploring marine life but are not yet prepared to scuba dive.
The physical health benefits of snorkelling are similar to what you would find with swimming.
The activity can be considered a full-body workout and form of cardio. It's low impact and will test your endurance. Snorkelling will work your core, leg muscles, and the muscles involved in breathing.
Snorkelling has also been shown to improve mental well-being.
Snorkelling may be a bit harder to find than SUP or kayaking in your local area. The activity is common in places with lagoons, shallow coastal areas, and freshwater rivers and streams.
Some top spots in Canada for snorkelling are Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, the Lake Erie wrecks in Ontario, and Vancouver Island.
Take-Home Message
Stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking/canoeing, and snorkelling are just a few of the many water sports to choose from. If you want to make the most out of your summer, try these activities for a creative way to get a workout in and enjoy nature. They're the perfect way to escape the heat and have a blast while doing it. You can also check out some of the top spots in Canada for water sports to have the ultimate experience.
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A Rutgers University Honors graduate, Jamie grew up on the Jersey shore and double majored in Comparative Literature and Anthropology in college. Jamie is an experienced writer in the health and wellness, biotech, and eCommerce fields. She loves writing with a purpose and has even written for the Department of Justice.
Jamie became drawn to exercise during her time in university and began to notice the physical and mental benefits of moving your body daily. Today, Jamie enjoys Pilates, light weight training, and going on long walks in nature daily.
Jamie is also passionate about eating right and prioritizing gut health and immunity. She is always trying the next innovation in health and wellness. When she’s not writing articles, Jamie enjoys reading, playing guitar, and finding dogs to play with.
