Athletes, people looking to get into shape, and those who enjoy the outdoors are perfect candidates for canoeing and kayaking.

But Smith cautions those that may have a history of heart disease, "The vigorous use of the arms will be more taxing on the heart," said Smith. "This is still an appropriate exercise approach, but the training must be advanced cautiously to avoid an adverse response."

Weight Loss:

"To move the kayak at about 5 mph is going to require about 0.1 hp of effort," said Finlay. That is equal to about 400 calories per hour.

"Four hours of paddling is going to burn up about 1600 calories! A weight watcher's dream!"

Strength Training:

Kayaking involves strength training, flexibility and aerobic workouts. The high number of repetition works your abs, arms, shoulders, back and chest. Finlay adds that paddling starts at the feet –- which means your legs and butt are getting a workout, too.

Finlay estimates you can get in about 500 strokes per mile. Paddling uses every muscle in the upper body as well as some in the lower body.

"This means that in one hour at 3 mph you are going to do about 1500 repetitions of low impact upper body movements, which no matter what your fitness goals are, you are going to tone up almost every muscle in your body."

Reducing Stress:

In addition to the physical workout you'll get, being outdoors and taking in nature, even for a short period of time, helps the mind and body relax and unwind.

How to Get Started:

Smith says that many shops offer 'demo days' to try out equipment and get information on lessons. "I strongly recommend lessons," said Smith.

Lessons can range from introductory to advanced as well as competitive and race training. At schools such as Lake Mead's students learn the basics like how to enter and exit a kayak, how to properly hold a paddle and how to master a variety of different strokes.