Here are a few key pointers to get ready for big water.
- MOBILITY IS KEY! Avoiding injuries is better than rehabbing and most injuries can be avoided through mobility. Kayakers (myself included) usually have unique (to be read as BAD) posture from sitting in a small plastic boat and pulling ourselves around. There are some easy stretches you can do to get your back and shoulders aligned and mobile. For pointers, visit fellow my good friend and fellow kayaker, Kelly Starrett's blog- the mobility wod Here you will find some amazing "self administered" PT and stretches that will save you a trip to the ortho this year. My favorite is the couch stretch and you'll need some lacrosse balls to work out some major kinks you probably didn't know you had.
- Start strengthening your shoulders- this can be done through good hand stands against a wall, walking on your hands, overhead squats or hand stand push ups. Strong shoulders will equate to a safer and better paddling season.
As always, please tell anyone you know between 18 and 39 who has or ever has had cancer about the free adventure programs First Descents offers. If you don't refer them, they'll never know. It's up to you!
Finally, are you looking for a good challenge this year or do you already have one up your sleeve but need a good cause to align with? Check out TEAM FD where you can challenge yourself and do it for a good cause!
See you on the rivers!
Brad