A heavy load isn't always the cause of back problems, simply lifting the wrong way could twist or concentrate all the load to one area which causes muscle strain. Your precious leisure time shouldn't be spent watching everyone from shore while you nurse back pain - so here's how to avoid doing this . . .

• Bend with your knees - lift with your leg muscles
• Take breaks if you have to carry for a long distance
• Preview your path for any obstacles or uneven ground
• Use both hands to lift
• Avoid quickly hoisting the kayak - move in stages
• Keep the kayak close to your body

To move your kayak to the water edge, it's best not to drag it because you'll scratch up the bottom and thin the hull material.

The easiest way to lift a kayak is to have the benefit of a friend - you can each grab an end with the handy-dandy toggles located on each end of most kayaks. (You can never have enough friends)!

The second easiest way is a Kayak Cart. You can purchase a set of lightweight wheels that attach to one end or the center of the kayak. You can find them in the Paddling Shop.

They attach to one end of the kayak, allowing a person to lift the other end and easily move it to the water. These are specifically designed to move the kayak to the water after it is transported to the site - not to be used as a trailer.

But if you're lifting a kayak alone - here's how

To lift a kayak on top your shoulder by yourself

• With the kayak on the ground, stand at the center point of the kayak length


• Crouch and pull the kayak up so that the cockpit opening is against you


• Grab the top/inside edge of the cockpit and lift the kayak onto your closest thigh


• Feet firmly planted, one foot in front, lean your shoulder into the bottom edge of the kayak


• Find a good balance spot


• Vertically straighten with your legs to stand, balancing the weight on your shoulder

Now move it to the water!