Finally got the X-Factor wet (Mission Bay)

[Jimmyz123]

Do you do any exercising at a gym or anything? The reason I ask is you can do some workouts that will help build your core, and help with your balance while on the Kayaks. You want to keep you center of gravity in the middle of the boat. Lean too far one way or the other, and you could go in, but not likely. As for the Gym, or at home, get a stability ball, one that fits your height. If you buy one it will come with instructions on various exercises or you can search youtube for exercises. Doing crunches, sitting, and other things that force you to use your abs will build your core, also increasing stability.

As for the Kayaking part. Most of us have fished on boats, and rule number one is not to fall out of the boat, but in a Kayak you have to walk into the water before you can get into the boat. The first time getting in is always a little weird. Build your confidence take your kayak to areas in Mission bay that the speed is controlled. Practice your paddling and moving around and getting comfy. Check out these videos they will help you with your technique, and make your day more enjoyable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YeduKtjFxA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZ9axwFqK0o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlsiHlRSYKA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2a2xu2VRxc

If you fall in
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmaNBXEa_yQ

There are tons of videos that you can watch to help you. Trust me you want to know the tricks and it will help you feel more comfortable.

[dbarnett66]

Originally Posted by Jimmyz123

Do you do any exercising at a gym or anything? The reason I ask is you can do some workouts that will help build your core, and help with your balance while on the Kayaks. You want to keep you center of gravity in the middle of the boat. Lean too far one way or the other, and you could go in, but not likely. As for the Gym, or at home, get a stability ball, one that fits your height. If you buy one it will come with instructions on various exercises or you can search youtube for exercises. Doing crunches, sitting, and other things that force you to use your abs will build your core, also increasing stability.

As for the Kayaking part. Most of us have fished on boats, and rule number one is not to fall out of the boat, but in a Kayak you have to walk into the water before you can get into the boat. The first time getting in is always a little weird. Build your confidence take your kayak to areas in Mission bay that the speed is controlled. Practice your paddling and moving around and getting comfy. Check out these videos they will help you with your technique, and make your day more enjoyable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YeduKtjFxA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZ9axwFqK0o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlsiHlRSYKA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2a2xu2VRxc

If you fall in
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmaNBXEa_yQ

There are tons of videos that you can watch to help you. Trust me you want to know the tricks and it will help you feel more comfortable.

Thanks for the advice. I have been exercising and my upper body strength is above average according to my doctor. He called me the most physically fit morbidly obese man he has met. I think my relative good health has allowed me to lose almost 80 pounds so quickly. I have rented boats, but this was my first experience in a yak. I was expecting to feel arm an shoulder pain, but I woke up feeling great. With that being said, I need to lose another 120 pounds and I thinking actively kayaking will help in my goal. I just need to get more experience. When the weather warms up next month I intend to roll the kayak and practice re-entry a few times. One thing most give me credit for is that I usually go "all in" when trying something new. I already have the passion for fishing. I have actively fished since I was a teenager. Just have to practice the kayak part.

[Jimmyz123]

Keep it up and if you ever want a buddy to paddle with you let me know. I'll meet up with you and help you however I am able.