I have found kayaking to be a great adjunct to cycling, giving my upper body a nice workout. For years I windsurfed on the local lake but over time it took its toll on my back and I had to quit. As a child I developed a love for kayaking as my dad would take my out in the SF Bay. A couple of years ago I bought a well-used glass boat from an acquaintance.

Since I decided a few months ago to store my kayaknear a lake (with much easier access), I have been kayaking much more. The summer this year in Seattle has produced many warm sunny days and getting out in the boat has proved irresistable.

Up until yesterday, I had been using a wood paddle which did the job but left me with a fair amount of tendonitis (my guess) in my elbow. Nice new paddles seem expensive so I finally snagged a wonderful glass Swift (made by Eddyline - a Washington company). It made all the difference in the world. I was able to go much further in less time with better access to varying strokes.

Ah, the best of both worlds!