Those hobies are great kayaks and ranks at the top compared to the other kayaks. I think the peddle kayak will ease the discomfort of any back pain but you will get stiffness in your back legs arms and butt after and everywhere else after 8hrs.You are less likely to notice it on the water though. You will definetly notice the pluses of this type of kayak and be awed that their is a fishing kayak that makes everything that was a bit annoying or a hassle to dissappear. Their are alot of pluses to this kayak but the one that I most appreciate is when your about 5 miles out and the current is strong you don't have to worry that you would end up in mexico. The only downfall to a Hobie is landing. I haven't quite mastered it yet but who has. Rolling 1,2,3 times a year for a kodak moment is no big deal. I purchased my hobie for Ron in San Diego. Good Luck.