Kayaking

Kayaks powered by foot-pedals instead of paddles originally were designed for people who are able bodied to use their legs, not arms for kayaking. The seat is reclined and has a back for support. People with disabilities can use these same boats needing little or no adaptation.

These kayaks have the following adaptations:

• Steering handles on both sides of the boat are connected to the rudder to steer the boat. The two handles work together so only one hand is needed to operate the boat.
• The boat uses an off-the-shelf bicycle crank connected to the propeller shaft with a chain drive to power the boat.
• Outrigger platforms or pontoons can be attached to both sides of the kayak to stabilize it enough for someone to stand in the boat without tipping it.

To learn more about adaptive kayaking, see:
http://openwatercycling.com/owcpurchase.html