Paddle boarding, also known as stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), is a low-impact water sport that is quickly gaining popularity. It is a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and relieve stress – not to mention, it’s also incredible fun!
SUP is easy to learn, making it a great activity for people of all ages and fitness levels and is also a relatively inexpensive sport to get started in. All that you need is a paddle board, a paddle and a life jacket if venturing into deep water.
Once you have the basic gear, you can then start paddling on any body of water, from lakes and rivers to oceans and bays. SUP is a great way to explore new places and see the world from a totally different perspective and I’ve met so many wonderfully adventurous and uplifting people along my travels.
Health benefits of SUP:
- Full-body workout: SUP is a full-body workout that engages all of the major muscle groups. When you paddle, you are using your arms, legs, core, and back muscles. This makes SUP a great way to improve your overall fitness level.
- Cardiovascular health: SUP is a great way to improve your cardiovascular health. The act of paddling is a form of aerobic exercise, which means that it gets your heart rate up and improves your circulation.
- Balance and coordination: SUP requires good balance and coordination. When you are standing on a paddle board, you need to be able to shift your weight and move your body in order to maintain your balance. This can help to improve your balance and coordination in all aspects of your life.
- Stress relief: SUP is a great way to relieve stress and relax. Being out in nature and paddling on the water can help to clear your mind and reduce stress levels.
SUP can also help to improve your mood, sleep quality and overall well-being and is such a lovely activity to while away a sunny afternoon out in nature.
A few tips for getting started with SUP:
- Take a lesson from a qualified instructor. This will help you to learn the basics of paddle boarding, such as how to stand up on the board, paddle efficiently, and turn.
- Start in calm waters, such as a lake or pond. Once you have mastered the basics, you can try paddling in more challenging conditions, such as rivers or oceans.
- Wear a life jacket at all times. This is important for safety, even if you are a strong swimmer.
- Be aware of your surroundings and paddle in areas where there are other people.
- Have fun! SUP is a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and relieve stress.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start paddling!
