Enjoying the nice warm weather? Fort Berthold Diabetes Program’s summer equipment rentals will begin on June 1, 2021.   Free ($20 returnable CASH deposit required) rental equipment options include kayaks, paddle boards, and bikes.  Personal floatation devices such as life jackets will be included with the rentals, as well as paddles for kayaks and paddle boards. 

A health benefit of kayaking includes burning up to 500 calories an hour. Kayaking and paddle boarding enhances upper body strength and improves balance. Whether you’re kayaking or paddle boarding, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Sakakawea. Your kayaking journey can be tranquil and reduce stress, while being immersed in nature. Spend some time on the water absorbing vitamin D, which is crucial for calcium production to build strong bones. 

Bikes will be available for day rentals this season. Cycling can help burn up to 400-1000 calories per an hour, while also improving posture and coordination, ultimately increasing cardiovascular fitness.  Biking can cut risks of developing heart disease in half, and can improve muscle strength and flexibility. Enjoy the bike trails and walking paths in New Town and Four Bears. Helmets will be available for all bike rentals. All bike rentals will have to be returned by 5:30pm each day. Upon renting the bikes you will be measured for the correct size bike that is appropriate for your height. 

Daily exercise is crucial for our health and wellness. Adults should have at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise daily. Children under the age of 18 should have one hour aerobic exercise daily. Aerobic is any type of cardiovascular conditioning that includes brisk walking, swimming, running, or cycling. Aerobic exercise reduces the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

All renters must be 18 years of age or older. A $20 cash returnable cash deposit is required before a rental is released.  Renters will receive their deposit back after return of all equipment in satisfactory condition. All renters must provide a state or tribal ID and must read and sign a bike, kayak, or paddle board rental agreement before renting. All renters must be familiar with the proper use of equipment and know the safety measures to be taken while using the equipment. If the renter is not familiar with the proper use of the equipment, diabetes program staff can assist with further instructions on safe operation. Renters will reimburse the Fort Berthold Diabetes Program for any theft, loss, or damage, other than reasonable wear or tear resulting from normal usage. Two day late return of items will result in filed police report, and user will not be able to rent equipment for the remainder of the season.  Seven days or more of late return or unreturned items will result in permanent inability to rent any items in the future and the renter will be responsible to pay for any unreturned equipment. 

Just as a reminder, all rentals are free ($20 returnable CASH deposit required) for everyone and the purpose of the rental program is to help promote daily aerobic exercise, which is important for our health and to improve our immune system. The rental process is easy and is available for all community members. Its best time of the year to get some fun in the sun and enjoy a bike ride, kayak, or paddle board. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call our office at 701-627-7931. Thank you!

Amber Kirk

Lead Health Education Technician

Fort Berthold Diabetes Program

701-627-7931