Paddling Tips for Seniors
By: Christi Holmes, Ambassador
Canoeing and kayaking are relaxing, low-impact activities for older adults. Last year my 75-year-old mother and I paddled 70 miles along the Allagash River in Northern Maine. With some additional planning and adjustments, she had a comfortable, enjoyable trip. Spending time in nature is good for all ages, but there are a few items to consider when it comes to paddling in your golden years.
Choose the Right Craft
Whether you’re kayaking or canoeing, prioritize stability over speed, and go as light as possible.
For two-person canoes, the Discovery 133 comes in at 78 lbs. and has a wide beam for rock-solid stability. The Saranac 146 has comfortable contoured seats with backs and comes in at 79 lbs.
For kayaks, a sit-on-top kayak is easier to get in and out of than a sit-inside kayak. The sit-on-top Ocean Kayak Venus features a comfortable seat and is less than 50 lbs. The sit-on-top Sportsman line features remarkably stable crafts and offers foot pedal options if you’d prefer to let your lower body do the work.
The right accessories are important, too. Switching to a lightweight paddle will save extra weight on your shoulders. Adding a backrest to your canoe seat can make the experience more comfortable. Consider adding a kayak loader to your vehicle to help with loading and unloading.
Be Honest and Enlist Help
Set reasonable expectations about your limitations and communicate them with your paddling partner. Allow extra time for your usual paddle route. Swallow your pride and ask for help loading and unloading your craft. Use a canoe cart to help transport your canoe or kayak from your vehicle to the water. Find an ADA boat launch or a boat launch with a stable dock to enter and exit your vessel more easily or enter from knee-deep water. Hire a guide or invite a younger friend for multi-day canoe camping trips. Not only will they help you with camp chores, but they will help with portaging, which can be especially hard on seniors. Pack an extra sleeping pad or take some Tylenol to make camping more comfortable.
Stay Active and Comfortable
Staying active, stretching, and strength training becomes more important as we age. Mastering proper paddling techniques also helps prevent unnecessary wear and tear on paddlers. Watch this paddling how-to video for details about paddling techniques. In addition to the physical requirements, paddling requires focus and mental sharpness to navigate safely. Plan your outings for early morning when there’s less traffic on the water.
Safety is especially paramount for older paddlers. Go slow and stay focused both on and off the water. Be cautious walking on rough terrain. Always wear a PFD and never paddle alone.
With a few adaptations and some extra planning, canoeing and kayaking are truly lifelong sports.