Re: [Paddlewise] Large people rescue

From: Dave Kruger <dkruger_at_pacifier.com>
Date: Wed, 27 Jan 1999 05:51:35 -0800
Sisler quoted Doug Loyd, I think:
> 
> anyone have any ideas. We tried the stirrup method, which gave the
> mid-range weighted ladies a "leg-up", but I hate to see the heavier ladies
> curtailed so much from paddling. This is a serious question, asked by the
> ladies themselves, so please, no super silly remarks, just some constructive

I do not have a magic answer, but perhaps a suggestion to help condition
the folks who are having trouble a little so they can use the stirrup
method.

The basic problem is that someone who can not lift (most of) his/her own
body weight using the muscles of one leg can not benefit from the stirrup. 
I'd suggest that the folks having trouble go to the weight room and work on
improving their leg strength.  I don't know the correct name for this, but
the leg extension machine is where I have worked on leg strength.

When I have worked with folks having trouble re-entering the cockpit, the
stirrup method was always my method of last resort.  I would not tell the
ladies "don't go kayaking, it's too dangerous for you."  I'd tell them to
be capable of rescue, they need more leg strength.

As a heavier-than-average person, I can relate to their frustration. 
Water-related activities, at least ones where a person's body is immersed,
are normally one of the best exercise avenues for folks like me.  I have no
trouble self-rescuing, but I have good leg and upper-body strength.

I'd point the ladies at conditioning their legs.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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Received on Wed Jan 27 1999 - 05:53:02 PST

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