Kayaking & Canoeing

Why kayaking & canoeing is wonderful after 50

Kayaking and canoeing are wonderful after 50 because they are low-impact and gentle on the knees, hips, and back, while still working your arms, shoulders, and core. The water sets a calm, unhurried pace, the fresh air and quiet are deeply relaxing, and you can paddle alone for peace or with a partner for company. It is a real full-body activity that rarely feels like exercise. Two simple rules keep it safe: always wear your life jacket (PFD) every single time, even on calm water and even if you swim well, and check with your doctor before you start, especially if you have heart, shoulder, or balance concerns. With those covered, every outing leaves you refreshed.

Your first month, week by week

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not wearing a life jacket. Always wear a properly fitted PFD every single time you are on the water, even on a calm pond and even if you are a strong swimmer. This is the single most important safety rule, and it is non-negotiable.
• Skipping a doctor's okay before starting. Check with your doctor first, especially if you have heart, shoulder, balance, or mobility concerns, so you can paddle with confidence.
• Going out alone, especially when new. Paddle with a partner or a club, tell someone your plan, and stay within easy reach of shore until you are very comfortable.
• Choosing the wrong conditions. Avoid wind, waves, cold water, and moving rivers when you are starting out. Stick to calm, flat water and check the weather and forecast first.
• Gripping the paddle too tightly. A relaxed, loose grip and letting your torso do the work prevents sore hands, wrists, and shoulders and keeps you paddling longer.
• Dressing for the air instead of the water. Cold water is dangerous even on a warm day, so dress for the water temperature and bring a dry change of clothes.

Words you'll hear

PFD (life jacket)

A personal flotation device, the life jacket you wear every time on the water. It keeps you afloat and is the most important piece of safety gear.

Sit-on-top

A kayak where you sit on an open deck rather than inside a cockpit. It is the easiest and safest type to get on and off, ideal for beginners.

Hull

The body or bottom of the boat that sits in the water. A wider hull is more stable and forgiving, which is what you want when starting out.

Cockpit

The open seating area of a sit-inside kayak where you sit with your legs tucked under the deck. Sit-on-tops do not have an enclosed cockpit.

Forward stroke

The basic paddle stroke that moves the boat ahead. Using your torso, not just your arms, makes it efficient and easy on your shoulders.

Eddy

A calm pocket of water behind a rock or bend in a river where the current slows or reverses. Paddlers rest and regroup in eddies on moving water.

Portage

Carrying or wheeling your boat over land between two stretches of water, for example around a dam, rapid, or to reach the next lake.

Where to find your people

• Local paddling and canoe clubs, which welcome new members and often run beginner-friendly group paddles.
• Outfitters and rental shops, where staff can match you to a stable boat, suggest calm spots, and point you to classes.
• Meetup groups for kayaking or canoeing in your area, an easy way to find relaxed paddles with friendly people.
• REI classes and guided outings, which teach the basics and safety in a supportive, well-equipped setting.
• State and county park programs, which often offer guided paddles, equipment rentals, and naturalist-led trips on calm water.