The Inspiration· We started kayaking during the pandemic as a way to stay active and connect with nature, which quickly became a passion.
We noticed a lack of representation of Black people in kayaking and decided to create “Kayak Black” to promote inclusivity and diversity in water sports. Our mission is to encourage Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) to participate in various water activities by highlighting the physical and mental health benefits being in, on, or near water has to offer.
Our goal, is to break down barriers and make water sports and activities accessible to everyone, fostering a sense of community. We invites anyone interested in water activities to join Us, emphasizing the joy and well-being that comes from being on the water. Kayak Black is for anybody and everybody interested in trying something that promises to make you feel good one paddle at a time. That said, “Meet Me on the Water”!
The Inspiration & Mission
"Meet Me On The Water!"
Join us at the following State Parks, (weather permitting) September 21 - November 30, 2024, from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area
Address: 7200 Graces Quarters, Middle River, MD 21220.
Dates: 09/21; 09/28;10/12; 11/23 https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/central/GunpowderFalls/Hammerman-Area.aspx
Rocky Point Beach & Park
Address: 2200 Rocky Point Rd, Essex, MD 21221
Dates: 10/06; 10/26; 11/10 https://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/departments/recreation/parks-directory/rocky-point-park-and-beach
Piney Run Park, Carroll County
Address: 30 Martz Rd, Sykesville, MD 21784
Dates: 10/19;
https://www.carrollcountymd.gov/government/directory/recreation-parks/places-to-go/piney-run-park/
Registration: To help us prepare for the Meet Ups, please take a moment to register so we can estimate the number of attendees.
For more information about each park, click on their link.
Contact Us
Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. You can use the form on our website or email us directly. We appreciate your interest and look forward to hearing from you.
Email: kayakblack01@gmail.com
Phone: (443)801-0435
Join Our Community
Keep up with the latest upcoming events and group outings.
Reserve Time On The Water
Physical Health Benefits
Kayaking is a low-impact exercise that avoids stress on knees and joints, focusing on the control of major muscle groups.
It effectively targets muscle groups such as the back, shoulders, lats, arms, forearms, and core/abs, providing an intensive workout.
Kayaking can burn between 100 to 300 calories per hour, with higher intensity paddling burning more calories.
A 150-lb person can burn around 350 calories per hour, a 175-lb person up to 400 calories, and a 200-lb person around 450 calories.
The effort required increases with the weight of the kayak, gear, and additional passengers.
Mental Health Benefits
Engaging in water-based activities like kayaking can ease anxiety, reduce depression, and increase self-esteem.
Kayaking releases neurotransmitters such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, which boost mood and self-confidence.
The calming effect of paddling provides a sense of peace and tranquility beneficial for mental health.
Kayaking is a form of ecotherapy that uplifts the mind and improves mood and mental state.
Being surrounded by nature during kayaking enhances the positive effects on mental health.
