Today’s family is usually reduced to almost “not having time.” Parents are working longer hours, children and teens’ attention is being consumed by social media, TV, and even texting full conversations. Distractions are all around us. Hell, I remember when I was younger we would get on our bikes and ride to visit friends and then we would talk to them using our voice.

Times have changed, but not everything has been for the better. Families need more ways to spend time together than just “friending” on the Internet and “posting” about the day’s events. Without interaction together it is difficult to really know a person.

Fortunately, there is a great way to solve this problem. Spend time together without electronic distractions, get to know each other, and get your bodies moving for a workout. It’s called paddle sports. Commonly known as kayaking, canoeing and the increasingly popular paddle boards or SUPs.

Throughout the world we are blessed with many rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water that are there for you to explore. Not to mention the natural beauty that Mother Nature is willing to share. The type of landscape is only found through boats.

Sure, browsing is great too, but it does come with some major downsides. It costs money for gas, insurance, docking, etc. It is also very difficult to get into those little nooks and crannies in nature. Using a kayak or canoe does not require extra money. Just an oar and some human strength.

This outdoor water sport takes off like a rocket to the moon. Parents, children, teenagers of all ages are falling in love with rowing sports all over the world.

By using a light boat and paddle, people can row and explore things that cannot be seen unless they are in the water. It does not require a large vehicle to tow, it can even be done with a small vehicle with the proper trailer.

Kayak trailers specially built to be lightweight, but carry various sport paddle boats can be purchased to accommodate many kayaks and canoes and still be towed behind a small car. Picture this, the whole family, a few friends getting together and spending the whole day in the water, or at the park and just getting to know each other and spending time without texting or emailing. All this is possible.

So come on people. Rally the troops, round up your friends, get the kids out of the house, and enjoy mother nature. You have a world to explore, it’s time to get going!