STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING
24 Feb 2018
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a great way to see your beautiful surroundings from new perspectives, while engaging in a low- impact full-body workout.
What is SUP?
You’ve probably guessed that SUP involves standing on a surfboard while using a paddle to help you glide over the water.
It is also incredibly versatile, and can incorporate other activities including yoga, surfing and fishing.
Core benefits
While one of the most frequently emphasised benefits of SUP is improved core strength, SUP utilises your whole body to achieve improved balance (core, back and abdominal muscles), stability (legs), and movement (arms, back, and shoulder muscles), and endurance.
The cross-training element of SUP means that it’s a great way to get your heart pumping – thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Better still, the low-impact nature of the sport means that there is little risk of injury, making it safe for most and a great method of rehabilitation.
Finally, time out in nature to appreciate your surroundings and the rhythmic motion of the paddle moving through the water will help you relax while you soak up vitamin D.
Getting started
When you’re getting started, do a quick internet search to find your closest paddleboard hire centre. They can fit you with the right-sized board and paddle, and will allow you to have a taste for the sport before you buy in.
Most centres also offer lessons, which will help you learn the correct stance, paddling and turning techniques, and safety tips so that you’ll be on the fast track to getting maximum enjoyment from your board
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
● A board: for beginners, the larger the board, the better. This will offer the greatest stability while you’re finding your feet.
● A paddle: as a general rule, the paddle should reach 15-25 cm above your head
● Swimming gear that can get wet, keep you warm and protect you from the sun.
● A life jacket in case of a fall
● Sunscreen
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