There are not much of outdoor activities left that can match the experience, fun, and excitement of kayaking. However, the catch here is that kayaks usually have their weight limits? Manufacturers set that limit by calculating approximately calculating the kayaker’s and his gear’s weight.
Now, that brings us to the question, how does a fat person get in a Kayak?
Kayak being a lightweight watercraft, that’s a valid question to have, and below we have tried to answer that question. So let’s see whether it’s possible.
Kayaking for weight loss
Kayaking is definitely fun regardless of weight, and that’s one reason. But do you know it can help you lose weight and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system? On average, an hour of kayaking easily burns 400 calories for a regular person. However, considering you are a fat person weighing more than 200 lbs. you can easily burn nearly 500 calories per hour.
Moreover, the aerobic nature of the activity raises your heart rate and blood flow throughout your body. As a result, your heart becomes more efficient, prompting a better cardiovascular system.
Choosing the perfect kayak for heavy paddlers
Choosing the right kayak as a heavy paddler is simpler than you think. There is no such thing as a fat boy or fat girl kayak; the criteria are the same as regular kayaks. You have to look for a higher weight capacity.
Usually, the weight capacity ranges from 250 to 400 lbs. for singles kayaks. If you can slightly minimize your gears, you shouldn’t worry about the weight capacity. The rule of thumb to calculate a kayak’s actual weight capacity is to multiply the manufacturer’s advised capacity by 0.8.
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Then comes the question of whether you pick a sit-in or sit-on kayak. As a big guy, sit-in kayaks can be a bit limiting and awkward looking at the same time. Also, sit-in kayaks can be a bit challenging to get in and get out too. But, comparatively, it’s easier getting back on a sit-on kayak. That’s why sit-on kayaks are better options for bigger kayakers. If you are kayaking as a plus size person and you have bad knees then you should read how to Get Out of a Kayak With Bad Knees?
If it’s a tandem kayak and you are wondering where should the heavier person sit on a kayak, there is an answer. In that case, it’s better to have the heavier weight at the back unless you are dealing with strong wind.
How does a fat person get in a kayak: Step-by-step guide
Now that you know how to pick the best kayak according to your weight and understand the benefits of kayaking, you are probably feeling motivated about hitting the water. But hold your water because the challenge of getting on the kayak as a heavy person remains.
Remember that your weight should never deprive you of kayaking fun. As a heavy paddler, I tried different techniques to get on a kayak until I came up with the perfect one. So here are the steps: how does a fat person get into a kayak you can follow as a heavy kayaker.
- Step 1: First thing you need to do is mentally prepare yourself. Don’t listen to others making fun of you or your way of getting into the kayak. At the end of the day, you’ll have to do all the work and enjoy the time.
- Step 2: Push your kayak halfway into the water after mentally preparing and having all the safety gear. I said halfway because pushing it all the way in the water can because it helps the kayak stabilize and so the kayak doesn’t go away from you due to waves.
- Step 3: Now, grab the paddle and put it across the boat for balance. Then, slowly put your one foot into the kayak. Trying to sit on two feet simultaneously will make the kayak wobble very aggressively. As a result, you might get thrown off the kayak in a second.
- Step 4: Now, putting pressure onto the paddle, it’s time to get your legs on the kayak. To do that, sit in the kayak after putting one foot in and then go for the other foot. Again, exercising to get in and out of the kayak can make the whole thing easier.
- Step 5: Now that your legs are inside, you might be wondering who will push your kayak into the water now that you have sat. You can ask a friend to do that.
- Step 6: If you don’t have anyone around, I have a bonus tip for you. For that, you don’t have to rely on anyone. Just detach the paddles and use two parts on the ground to push your kaya in the water as sled hockey players move forward.
Don’t make this mistake!
You might have seen videos online where experts have played with the kayak’s design, especially the hull part, to make more space. If you plan to do the same, get rid of that thought. Those modifications can only be done on a higher-end kayak with great expertise.
If you try to pull that off on your basic fishing or touring kayak, it can severely damage the structural integrity of your kayak. Get out of the misconception of adding more space by modifications and look for higher-weight capacity kayaks.
If you have to add some extra flotation, the easiest and safest way is to add airbags in the bulkhead compartments in the hull.
Also Read: How to Store a Kayak in an Apartment? 3 Cool Ways!
Tips for kayaking as a fat person
We are almost at the end of our today’s discussion. At this point, I would like to give you some pro tips to make your kayaking experience much more convenient and enjoyable.
- A backrest can be a massive help. Kayaking is physically demandable, and as a heavy paddler, you can have a hard time sitting for hours in a kayak. In that case, a backrest can be a big help.
- Start slow, as there are different areas for kayaking. Assuming you are a beginner, always start with calm water to get a good grip on the whole process.
- If you are unsure about kayaking, don’t invest in an expensive kayak just yet. There are various kayak rentals available to rent you a kayak for a day.
- Don’t forget to get the necessary safety gear with yourself. Especially life jackets, personal floating devices, and paddle float are a must for heavy kayakers starting their journey.
- As a first-timer and fat person in a kayak, it’s entirely normal for kayakers to fall off the kayak regardless of their weight. Just be prepared for it, and after a few times, you’ll get hold of it.
- As a fat person, I know it’s not easy to get out there and engage in physical activity. That’s why it’s best to go out with friends or family to have good company on the water and enjoy the time.
Final Thought
That’s a wrap for today. I hope I have answered How Does a Fat Person Get In a Kayak and all your kayaking-related questions for fat persons. As you can see, no matter how far you are, kayaking will always embrace you with open arms. All you have to do is be careful about specific tips and rules and choose the right kayak. If you have successfully managed to do that, you’ll absolutely love the perfect blend of adventure and physical benefits kayaking offers.
