Q: What are some good exercises I can use to help me improve my kayaking? - M.W.K., North Andover, MA

A: Kayaking demands a tremendous amount of upper-body strength. However, an all-over training program that includes leg exercises would probably be a good bet for you. Don't concern yourself with trying to isolate specific muscle groups. Instead, select exercises that bring supporting muscle groups into play to help you with the sports movement (in this case, paddling). To help you make gains, I recommend that you perform such basic exercises as bench presses for the upper body and squats, bent-knee sit-ups, and leg-hyperextensions for the lower body. I think you will find that 15-20 repetitions per set will be more beneficial for you. It will build the muscular endurance you need for kayaking better than the typical 8 to 10 set that's suitable for overall muscular power gains.

Source: fitlinxx.com