Water sports
Dragon boat racing
Twenty paddlers moving as one to the beat of a drum.
- Hardintensity
- ~560kcal per hour
- Low costbudget
- Lowimpact
Is dragon boat racing right for you?
Twenty paddlers moving as one to the beat of a drum. It is a hard-intensity, low impact activity that you can do outdoors, in a group. Expect to burn around 560 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Easy to pick up. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.
Why try dragon boat racing
- Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
- Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
- Sociable. It is an easy way to meet people and have fun.
- Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.
How to start dragon boat racing
Clubs welcome beginners; turn up to an open training session.
Get the basics: club provides kit. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.
Stay safe around water: go with other people, check the conditions and learn with a qualified instructor.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 15 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 2 | 20 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 3 | 25 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 3 | 30 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
Similar activities
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Ride the water behind a cable or boat.
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Aqua jogging
Running in deep water with no impact on your joints.
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Synchronised swimming
Graceful, demanding routines set to music in the pool.
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Learn rescue skills while getting fitter in the water.
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Freediving
Calm, controlled breath-hold diving with a qualified instructor.
Not sure dragon boat racing is for you?
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