Ready to hit the water and burn some calories? In our latest article, we explore the age-old question: what burns more calories – kayaking or paddle boarding?
We all love a good waterfront workout, but which one is more effective for shedding those extra pounds?
Join us as we delve into the physics behind these two water sports and uncover the truth about their calorie-busting potential.
So grab your oars or pick up your paddle because we’re about to embark on a calorie-burning adventure that will leave you wanting to dive right in!
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Review contents
1. Difference in Calorie Burn
1.1 Kayaking
Kayaking is a fantastic water sport that allows us to enjoy the beauty of nature but also provides incredible health benefits. Regarding burning calories, kayaking can be a highly effective workout. The continuous paddling motion engages and strengthens our upper body muscles, including those in our arms, shoulders, and back. Additionally, the rotational movements in kayaking work our core muscles, improving stability and balance.
1.2 Paddle Boarding
On the other hand, paddle boarding is a relatively newer water activity that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Like kayaking, paddle boarding also requires paddling, primarily targeting our upper body muscles. However, paddle boarding is an added challenge as we must stand upright on a board and maintain balance. This engages our leg muscles, particularly the calves and thighs, resulting in an effective full-body workout.
2. Factors Affecting Calorie Burn
To understand the calorie-burning potential of kayaking and paddle boarding, it is essential to consider various factors that can influence the intensity and duration of the activity.
2.1 Intensity of Activity
The intensity at which we perform any physical activity directly impacts the number of calories burned. Higher-intensity workouts demand more energy and thus result in a more significant calorie burn. The intensity of kayaking and paddle boarding can vary based on speed, effort, and resistance against water currents.
2.2 Duration of Activity
The duration of our kayaking or paddle boarding session also plays a significant role in the number of calories burned. Longer sessions increase the overall time our muscles are engaged, leading to a higher calorie expenditure. It is important to note that the Level of intensity throughout the duration also determines the workout’s effectiveness.
2.3 Body Weight
Our body weight directly influences the energy needed to perform any physical activity. Individuals with a higher body weight typically burn more calories due to the increased effort required to move their mass. Therefore, the calorie burn during kayaking and paddle boarding will vary depending on our body weights.
2.4 Water Conditions
The condition of the water can affect the resistance encountered while kayaking or paddle boarding. Calm waters with minimal currents require less effort, resulting in a lower calorie burn. On the other hand, rough waters with strong currents or waves can significantly increase the resistance, thereby intensifying the workout and burning more calories.
2.5 Technique and Skill Level
The technique and skill level of kayaking or paddle boarding can also impact the calorie burn. Skilled individuals who have mastered efficient paddle strokes and proper body positioning can optimize their energy expenditure and maximize their calorie burn. Proper technique reduces unnecessary movements and ensures that the muscles are effectively utilized.
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3. Comparison of Calorie Burn
Now that we have explored the factors influencing calorie burn during kayaking and paddle boarding, let’s compare the calorie-burning potential of different intensity levels for both activities.
3.1 Moderate-Intensity Kayaking
During moderate-intensity kayaking, where we maintain a steady pace and exert moderate effort, we can expect to burn approximately 300 to 400 calories per hour. This calorie burn estimate is based on an average weight of 155 pounds (70 kg). Individuals with higher body weights will likely burn more calories, while those with lower weights may burn fewer calories.
3.2 Moderate-Intensity Paddle Boarding
Paddleboarding at a moderate intensity level can result in a calorie burn of around 250 to 350 calories per hour. Since paddle boarding primarily engages the upper body, the calorie burn may be slightly lower than kayaking. However, the added challenge of maintaining balance on the board still provides an excellent workout for our core and leg muscles.
3.3 High-Intensity Kayaking
Stepping up the intensity during kayaking by increasing our speed, incorporating interval training, or challenging ourselves against stronger water currents can elevate the calorie burn significantly. High-intensity kayaking can result in burning approximately 500 to 700 calories per hour. The vigorous paddling and increased muscle engagement push our bodies to work harder and expend more energy.
3.4 High-Intensity Paddle Boarding
Similarly, paddle boarding at a high-intensity level may involve faster paddling, navigating through rough waters, or incorporating advanced techniques, which can also significantly increase calorie burn. During high-intensity paddle boarding, we can expect to burn approximately 400 to 600 calories per hour. Combining upper body strength, core stability, and lower body engagement during intense paddle boarding delivers a powerful workout.
In conclusion, kayaking and paddle boarding offer excellent opportunities to burn calories and improve overall fitness. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and goals.
Whether we prefer the seated position and increased upper body engagement of kayaking or the standing balance challenge and full-body workout of paddle boarding, both activities provide enjoyable ways to stay active and burn calories. So, grab your kayak or paddleboard and head to the water for a fun-filled, calorie-burning adventure!
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