That's Fit

The gym may have flat screen TVs for you to watch while you burn some calories on the rowing machine, but how cool would it be to actually get out in the water and start paddling?

Kayaking is a fun and exciting way to put in a solid workout. Even as a beginner, it's not terribly uncommon to burn upwards of 400 calories an hour. And, as you become more and more aggressive in your stroke and are able to take on more challenging waterways, the workout -- as well as the whole experience -- only gets better from there.

Think there can't possibly be a place to kayak near where you live? Think again. There's kayaking to be done just about anywhere. Heck, even if you live in New York City, you can still get some paddling in. Group trips down the Hudson River are available, as are half-day paddles that can take you right past the Statue of Liberty!! Visit Manhattan Kayak Company for more information.

Forbes published some tips for choosing the best sneakers for your sport, and to be honest, I found it a bit lacking. They covered a lot of running and outdoor sports, but some of the sports for which shoes are really important (like volleyball and basketball) were totally left off.

I did a little research and added what sounded like the best shoes for those sports. However, it's important to remember your sport-specific needs when shopping for a shoe. If you will be making quick, side-to-side movements, you'll need different support than you would for running a marathon. If you really don't know what you need, try to find a store that specializes in your sport and ask for help. The right shoes might not make you a better athlete, but they will make your sport more enjoyable.

Need a little inspiration this Monday morning? How about this: Two Australian men recently completed the first successful kayaking trip across the Tasman Sea from Australia to New Zealand. They left on November 13th and were at sea for 62 days and traveled over 2,000 miles. The first man to attempt this journey disappeared last February off the coast of New Zealand, just short of his target.

You don't need to kayak 2,000 miles to reach your goal. All you have to do is make sure that you get in that workout you have planned for today. Suddenly, it doesn't seem like such a monumental task, does it?

I just came across a gift idea that I think is fabulous. Gifty Box has a Choose Your Own Adventure box. It contains an gift certificate for the outdoor adventure of your choice in your area. You can choose your certificate based on region -- Midwest, Southwest, etc. -- and even in my own little burg I found several adventures within a few hour's drive: kite boarding, hiking, kayaking, parachuting (yikes!), yoga, sailing, hang gliding, and so on. There are also Gifty Boxes for classes and lessons, as well as wine tasting.

I would love to find this under the Christmas tree this year...would you?

See more fit gifts!

Depending on where you live and your weather preferences, kayaking season may just be getting started or it may be finishing up. And if you have no idea which then maybe you should consider finding out, because kayaking can be great exercise for both your mind and your spirit. Rowing and paddling are great upper body workouts that can also help you improve flexibility, circulation, and joint health. Plus getting out on the water, away from the stresses of your everyday life, can really boost and rejuvenate your spirit.

If you're interested in trying it consider taking a class, and research what's available in your area because there may even be a paddling club that can help you meet others in the hobby.

Well, folks, summer's coming and there's nothing I like more to do when it's hot out than spend a good chunk of time in the water, whether I'm swimming through it or floating over it. What are your favourite water activities? Me, I love canoeing, rafting, tubing and wake boarding. Spending time in a boat is a great way to enjoy the sun and get some activity, so if, like me, you're growing tired of the treadmill, I suggest you head to the nearest lake or ocean for some fun on the water. It's not the first activity that people think of for fitness, but it's fun and it can be a great workout if you want it to be.

For those of you who crave activity, you can spend your water time riding the rapids in a raft or kayak. All you need is a fast-moving river, life jackets and, or course, a boat, but if you're a novice, be sure to seek out the advice of someone who knows the river.

November 26th I broke my left foot. I broke it bad. In fact, I broke two bones in the foot, and tore both a muscle and ligament. When I do it, I do it right I guess. Sentenced to crutches for 10 weeks, I was given a grand opportunity to practice what I preach. Being Miss. Fitzness Trainer, I'm constantly telling others to 'find a way' to make it happen. Stop making excuses I say. Now it was my turn to find a way.

Going 10 weeks without working out was not an option. Sure I could lift weights, but cardiovascular workouts are a definite must for me. Now what? I absolutely could not partake in my favorite workouts; kickboxing, running, jumping rope. I couldn't even swim! So I had to search around the local gym. Fortunately I am a member of the Gainesville Health and Fitness Center which is probably one of the most beautiful and complete gyms in the country. If it weren't.....I would have been screwed. GH&FC has two kayak machines. Whoopee! I mean that both seriously and sarcastically. Grateful to have something to do to make me huff & puff without putting pressure on my boo boo, and annoyed because it's one of the most boring and tedious things I've done in my life.

First day I lasted 10 minutes and cursed like a sailor. Second day I begrudgingly conquered 20 minutes. Argh! Of course it was also the ONLY machine in this monstrous gym with no television attached. It was awful! Nonetheless. Because I felt obligated to all those nice folks I told to find a way, I stuck it out....and cursed a lot. I'm glad I did.