Having bad knees can be bad news for you if you’re into kayaking. The narrow cockpit can be tricky to get in and out of if your knees are stiff. Additionally, it can put a strain on your joints, which can cause you pain.
If you’re wondering how to get out of a kayak with bad knees, read on! 12 easy steps are all that you need.
12 Easy Steps to Exit a Kayak with Bad Knees
Twelve easy steps can get you off a kayak without putting pressure on your knees. You just need to practice and try out a couple of times before going into the water. Check them out!
Before Kayaking
Taking these steps before kayaking will save you a lot of doctor bills!
Step 1 – Pick the Right Kayak
If you have bad knees and you don’t intend on stopping kayaking anytime soon, we recommend you get a sit-on-top kayak instead of a regular one.
Sitting on the top will give your legs more space to move. It lets you sit with your legs straight which can be useful for some knee conditions. Additionally, it’s much easier to get in and out of.
Step 2 – Ask Your Doctor
Needless to say that consulting your doctor before kayaking is a necessity if you have bad knees. They can provide you with useful advice on the dos and don’ts for your knees. This way, you can avoid injuries and pain.
Step 3 – Use Knee Protection
A kayak’s cockpit is usually very narrow; you’ll not have much space to move your legs which can cause strain on your knees.
To avoid that, you can attach knee pads on the sides of the cockpit, which provide your knees with comfort when they’re resting. Alternatively, you can wear the knee pads instead of attaching them to the kayak. They’ll support your knees and keep the strain off your joints.
Step 4 – Stretch Before Kayaking
Your lower joints remain stiff for the majority of your kayak ride. When your knees are stationary for a long time, it’ll cause you pain and discomfort. That’s the reason you may feel pain on long journeys.
Stretching before and during your ride will relax your joints and keep them from becoming stiff. Just get out of the kayak and do some exercises, then you’re good to go.
Step 5 – Don’t Save Money on Equipment
Buying a quality set for your kayaking is essential if you want to enjoy it. Don’t save money on the equipment. It’s a better investment than you think.
For example, getting a high-quality paddle will protect your arms and back from getting strained. Good paddles come with grooves for improved movements. Furthermore, you may need a backrest if you don’t want to put stress on your hips. There is a lot of equipment for kayaking with tons of options to choose from.
Step 6 -Try Private Lessons
If you’re not a professional, taking private lessons can be beneficial for you. Your instructor will help you with all the tips you need for your stiff knees. You’ll get to try everything before going out by yourself.
Your instructor will also show you the right methods for getting out of the kayak without further hurting your knees.
While Kayaking
Bad knees are often associated with this sport. There are a few things that you can take care of to avoid hurting yourself while kayaking.
Step 7 – Go for Low Impact Kayaking
You don’t always have to go for adventurous rides! Going for low impact kayaking from time to time will keep the strain off your knees.
Try to search for a flatwater pond or a narrow lake nearby and go for a ride on it. Lakes usually have minimal boat traffic which will keep you at ease. Kayaking can be enjoyable without roaring rivers too!
Step 8 – Position Your Legs Correctly
The position of your legs in the kayak is vital to your comfort. Watch how professionals place their legs and do it exactly like them.
Whether you’re sitting inside or on top, elevating your legs will relieve the pressure on your knees. If you can’t elevate them naturally, you can put a dry bag under your knees.
Step 9 – Move With Your Kayak
If it isn’t your first time kayaking, you probably know what a kayak spin is. When it happens, don’t fight it. Just go with it and use the kayak’s movements to your advantage. Fighting against it will require energy and movements on your part that could hurt your knees.
Adjust your direction accordingly and follow the motion.
After Kayaking: Getting out of the Kayak
This is the bit you came for! Exiting a kayak with bad knees could be a challenge for a lot of people. Follow these steps and you’ll get out safely.
Step 10 – Approaching the Shore
Pull your kayak so it’s in a parallel position to the shore. Alternatively, you can paddle to a shallow area of the shore where the water is knee-deep.
There is another method if you prefer to get out on dry land; you can pick up your speed for a few seconds and run your kayak right up onto the bank.
Step 11 – Preparing to Get Out
The first thing you should do is placing your paddle behind the coaming at a 90-degree angle. Most of it will then be off to the shore side. Afterward, grasp the paddle shaft with your hand that’s facing away from the shore, and squeeze it.
Using your other hand, grab the paddle shaft that’s on the shore side. While you’re doing this, lean the kayak towards the shore, so that the paddle will be supported by the shore bottom.
Step 12 – Pulling Your Legs Out
The last step you should do is balance your body so you have one foot on the ground. Then pull the other leg out.
If you’re okay with getting all wet, you can skip this step and roll out your body out of the kayak and directly into the water. Just make sure to do it in waist-high water.
To Sum Up
Kayaking is a lovely sport. It can be pretty enjoyable when done right. But it’s also important to take care of your body and stay healthy.
Treating knees wrong when they’re already stiff can have unpleasant results. That’s why it’s important to know how to get out of a kayak with bad knees. Knee pain is not fun, trust me!
Try to keep the instructions in your mind, and most importantly, enjoy your ride!