r/PerformancePaddling

Hey all,

I've read a lot and experimented a bit with gaining power vs losing weight and I'm confused.

I've been big and small, and it's obvious you can produce more power at a higher weight but it seems the optimal power to weight would make the most sense for K1 speeds wouldn't it?

I've been 92kg and 65kg as an adult, long story don't want to bore anyone. I started kayaking at 80kg. My heart rate was pretty high so a friend convinced me to learn about zones and metabolic functions. I dropped body fat percentage while using a C2 row erg and then did a lab test for zones.

I've been trying zone 2 training but at anything over 70kg I can't get a zone 2 speed above 9kph on even an elite k1. Same goes for running, I can't even slow run when I'm above 70kg, I have to walk really fast, but I noticed I can run really really slow below 70kg.

I can run, physically not a problem, and can hold higher heart rates but the lab results are pretty clear, that's zone 3 and zone 4 for sure.

I've read all about the relationship of gaining speed with power and losing weight in a few papers, but every marathon I look at the top people in K1 and running, they seem to be pretty light and lean.

Am I too heavy for my heart and lung functions? Anyone else with similar experiences?

I started in a viper 44 last year and want to progress to a real racing kayak. I tried the 4 and 7 xxl, the 4 felt more stable, the 7 had a more comfortable position. Both where to deep in the water though, I really need a xxxl. I see that the moskito is also a popular boat for heavier paddlers but can’t try it out anywhere near me. Anyone who has some experiences with the 7xxxl or Moskito?