Re: [Paddlewise] Foot pumps

If I do a lot of pumping, my foot and lower leg does get tired enough
that I sometimes switch feet, but I have not had a cramp so far, and it
usually takes less than five minutes to empty the cockpit.

The pump has a push plate about 3.5 inches square on its center that is
located approximately at the same height as the footbraces, so it pushes
like a gas pedal. I just use the balls of my feet to pump with.

Chuck Holst

 -----Original Message-----
From: Sisler, Clyde [mailto:Clyde.Sisler_at_wang.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 12, 1999 9:07 AM
To: 'Paddlewise'
Subject: RE: [Paddlewise] Foot pumps


> I like the idea of a footpump. Does anyone besides me get cramps in my
legs and feet when trying to operate a foot pump in a kayak?

This is the question I wanted to ask too.

Is a foot pump operated by a gas pedal type mechanism or does it push   like a
hand pump?  I assume a pedal type because there's not much room for leg
movement the other way.

I was trying to imagine operating a pedal for 10-15 minutes (or more?) in
emptying a cockpit and I swear my achilles tendon and calf started to   ache.
I assume you can switch feet.  How much of your foot can you get on the
pedal?


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