Have you ever dreamed of learning to sail, and all the freedom and excitement that can bring you, but then wondered whether you were physically up to the challenge? Or maybe you’ve tried sailing before and found yourself exhausted after a short time on the water.
Based on this, you might ask yourself whether sailing is physically demanding, and how hard it is on your body. And understandably, this could put you off.
But before you completely discount sailing lessons, let us give you some real-world advice from our sailing tutors. We’ve taught thousands of people of all varying physical abilities to sail, most of whom will start off with the beginner’s Competent Crew course.
The short answer is, yes, sailing can be physically demanding, but the levels of physicality can be at opposite ends of the spectrum, depending on your level. For example, beginners who learn to sail with us don’t need to be super fit and agile to get started.
The reality is, once you start sailing, you will soon start to develop muscle tone as the boat is constantly moving. It’s something that almost everyone can enjoy as a recreational activity, a competitive sport, or even as a new way of life.
The physical demands of sailing
Do you have to be in good shape to sail?
Sailors come in all shapes and sizes, and everyone starts somewhere with differing fitness levels. Sailing is a sport that will help get you into better shape physically as you will push yourself to new levels of co-ordination, agility, flexibility, strength, balance, and your cardiovascular health.
So, whilst you might think you’re not in good shape today to let you sail, if you start off with beginner’s lessons (such as Competent Crew), your aerobic fitness levels and muscle tone will benefit… it won’t take long for you to feel the difference.
When you take lessons with First Class Sailing, we are not expecting you to know anything before you start or have any degree of ability. Whilst sailing can be a physically demanding sport, don’t let that intimidate you – our beginner lessons are more about learning in a supportive environment with people working in a team at the same level as you.
With proper preparation and training, sailors of all levels can enjoy the thrill of being out on the water. Here are some of the physical demands you may encounter while sailing:
Does sailing build muscle?
Yes, sailing does build muscle. It involves activities such as hoisting and pulling sails to move the boat or yacht, which in turn will help develop muscle strength and endurance in your shoulders and back.
Sailing is fantastic for a range of muscle groups, which also include your arms, core, and legs. The muscles in your arms and back will be used to control the sails, while your core and legs will help you maintain balance and stability on the boat. However, with practice, your body will adapt and become stronger with each sailing experience.
As discussed, if you’re worried that you’re not in good shape to sail, it’s the perfect route to get into shape.
Other aspects of health that the physical demands of sailing can improve include:
- Cardiovascular fitness: Sailing is an excellent cardiovascular workout, especially during racing or windy conditions. Whilst you don’t need to be a marathon runner, having a basic level of cardiovascular fitness will make your sailing experience more enjoyable.
- Specific physical challenges: Depending on the conditions, sailing can be physically challenging. For example, strong winds and rough seas may require more physical effort to control the boat, while lighter winds may require more finesse and technique. However, with good training and a gradual build-up of your body strength, these challenges will become easier over time.
As a beginner sailor, don’t worry too much about the physical demands of sailing. Start it slowly, and make sure to get professional guidance with help with a renowned sailing school such as ourselves. Don’t be afraid to ask if you cannot do something on the boat or are starting to struggle.
Sailing can be hard on your body if you’re not used to physical exertion, but our courses are designed to make sure that if a participant is struggling, everyone will pull together and help.
We won’t lie to you, sometimes sailing can lead to injuries including back pain and repetitive strains, but you can help to prevent them by using proper form and technique, taking breaks, and using the right gear. Before, during, and after our courses, you will be fully briefed on how to work on the boat correctly to reduce the chance of hurting yourself.
Remember to listen to not just our teachers, but also your body and take a break when needed. By listening, concentrating, and practicing what you are taught, sailing can be a safe and enjoyable sport for all!
To conclude, sailing can be physically demanding, but it offers a unique and rewarding experience that is hard to replicate in other activities. The combination of the wind, the water, and the boat requires a level of skill and physicality that will be challenging, but when you take beginner’s lessons, you won’t have to push yourself anywhere near as hard as an experienced sailor would.
Whilst it’s true that sailing requires physical effort, it’s important to remember that the benefits go far beyond just the physical. Sailing can also help improve mental health and wellbeing. It’ an amazing opportunity to disconnect from the stress and distractions of everyday life and connect with nature and the open sea.
So, if you’re thinking about taking up sailing lessons, don’t let what you perceive the physical demands of sailing to be to hold you back. Sign up with us, and will we advise what you need to do to make sure we choose a course to suit your level and the pace you need.
Above all, just remember to have fun and enjoy the experience!
