MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- A typical physical training session for the Marines of CISD, MCRD Parris Island, would be a cadence run around the Depot. However, to change the pace Gunnery Sgt. John W. Daniels, operations chief, CISD, had something different in mind for his Marines.
On July 8, he took 15 Marines and their families for an intense and fun upper-body workout, kayaking. The group started on Fripp Island and ended at Hunting island, a trip that took about one hour and 45 minutes.
The sport of kayaking traces as far back as 5,000 years, and Daniels decided to incorporate kayaking into his physical training schedule.
"I want to incorporate a new PT session. I want to do something different at least once a month. I have set up an abdominal workout with Marine Corps Community Services-South Carolina's Semper Fit Program. I want to do boots and utilities run, kayaking, the obstacle course and the confidence course. Hopefully, I will [also] be able to bring the families together for a family motivational run," said Daniels.
Many people in the United States use kayaking as an outdoor activity, but Daniels wanted to build the morale and camaraderie of his Marines, and incorporate a new, fun upper-body workout.
"I am new to this section and being able to go kayaking was a great opportunity for me to meet the Marines of my shop and to do something I have never done before. I'm glad that Gunnery Sergeant Daniels is doing this because it builds the morale and it gets everyone together as a section," said Cpl. Natalie Ramirez, cable crew, CISD.
The MCCS-S.C. office at the MCAS Beaufort supplies several types of outdoor activity equipment at little or no cost.
"We didn't pay for anything because MCAS Beaufort's MCCS office let us have the kayaks, paddles and the life vests for the day," said Daniels.
The group also used a public boat ramp, which is free, to launch their kayaks.
The idea of kayaking came about last year when Lance Cpl. James Hutching, technician crew, CISD, suggested it as a fun day for the office. This year, it was Daniels who wanted to kayak.
"Last year we went kayaking, but at the end, we realized that we needed some type of transportation to get back to our vehicles. Today, we didn't have any major problems, other than not having enough paddles for everyone" said Daniels.
Kayaking is not a dangerous activity and everyone can do it. The weather is one thing that kayakers need to be aware of, however. Dangerous weather can lead to rip currents and other types of water accidents.
Daniels' Marines enjoyed their PT session and the Friday with their families. The office will be planning to kayak at least once a year, said Daniels.
"I really enjoyed being here this morning, and I will be looking forward for another fun trip," said Ramirez.
For more information on kayaking equipment from MCCS-SC, call 228-7472.