with cheese,” he said. “We try to do an event per week, some
bigger than others.”
My experience there was fantastic. Paddling down the calm
waters of Pike Creek with the swooping willow trees skimming
the water, everything glowed the brightest of greens after a few
days of rain. It was rejuvenating to see everything so full of life.
The only sounds were birds chirping and the paddles touching
the edge of the boat, mimicking that of a bamboo windchime in
a delicate breeze. A calm new outlook of our city washed over me
as I took in the scenery around me.
“I think it is really important that a lot of people have the
opportunity to get on the water and explore,” said Minday. “The
respect and appreciation for our rivers and creeks are raised by
seeing and experiencing it.”
Getting out and exploring our waterways makes it a higher
priority for people to keep it clean, said Minday. He says it makes
you think twice about dumping things in the lake, throwing
garbage out or even making sure to vote on important
regulations protecting our water.
Paddle sports have also become a popular option for fitness.
According to the American Council on Exercise an hour of
kayaking can burn around 300 calories.
I may have just found my new way to get in my fitness goals.
Heading to the gym has never really appealed to me, but this
almost meditative activity is right up my alley.
Paddling sports are low-impact and have also become the
choice for some who struggle with traditional exercises.
Matt Prangly is a kayaker who was finding difficulty with other
activities. “I was having a hard time with long distance running
and I needed an alternative.”
Paddling can improve muscle strength in your back, arms,
and chest and your cardiovascular health. It is an option for any
weight, strength or skill level.
Being so accustomed to looking at the area from the bustling
streets and then experiencing it from the waterways creates a
new perspective. This is one time when I found the grass is
definitely greener on the other side of that fence.
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Above: kayaks waiting for paddlers on the
riverfront
Below: Mark and Matt from Pelee Wings
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