Kayaking is a great way to exercise. Getting the kayak to the water can be part of that exercise, too. Even lightweight kayaks can weigh 40 lb., and carrying it a long distance can wear you out, especially if you don't have a friend to help you. You also need to be careful to lift and carry the kayak correctly so that you don't damage your back. An injury could mean no kayaking for a while.
Before you lift a kayak or try to move it, warm up and stretch. This will make sure you don't throw out your back. It doesn't take a heavy load to hurt your back; turning or twisting the wrong way while lifting can do it because it will shift the pressure to one area and strain muscles.
Take a look at the path you will be taking. Look for any obstacles or uneven ground. Bend with your knees. Use your leg muscles to lift the kayak. Use both hands when you lift it. Don't lift the kayak quickly--do it in stages. While walking, carry the kayak close to your body. If you are carrying the kayak for a long distance, take breaks when you need to.
If you're lifting a lighter kayak alone--one that weighs about 40 lb. or less--here are some tips. Put the kayak on its side with the cockpit against your body. Stand by the cockpit. Bend your knees until you are in a crouch with one foot in front to ensure secure footing. Take the inside of the cockpit's rim. Put your shoulder under the hand that has taken hold of the rim. Stand up, using your legs to lift, to an upright position.
When you move the kayak to the water, don't drag it. Dragging the kayak will cause scratches on the bottom and thin the hull material. The best way to lift and carry and kayak to the water is to have help. With a second person, you can take each end of the kayak by the toggles usually found at each end of kayaks.
There is also a device called a kayak cart--a set of lightweight wheels that you can attach to the ends or center of the kayak. This way, one person can lift one end of the kayak by a toggle and move it to the water's edge. These carts should only be used to move the kayak to the water; they should not serve as trailers.
