As the weather improves, you might be looking for a fun activity to do outdoors. How about standup paddleboarding (SUP)? In this blog, the KBPT team answers some questions you might have so you can give it a go.
What is SUP?
Standup paddleboarding is one of the fastest growing watersports. You stand up on a large board and use a single-bladed paddle to glide through the water in a river, lake, canal or (when it’s calm) the sea. SUP trainers reckon it should only take a couple of hours for you to feel comfortable standing on the board and paddling through the water.
What do I need to get started?
You’ll need a wetsuit, a standup paddleboard and a paddle. Paddleboards range from 9 to 13 feet and you can even get inflatable ones, which are cheaper and easier to transport. Before you buy your own board, we recommend trying out SUP by hiring a board or booking a session with a local training company (we’ve included a few suggestions at the end of this blog). That way, you’ll be able to find out if you like it and also get some tips from the experts.
Why might SUP be good for me?
SUP is a low impact exercise that requires balance, strength and endurance. By providing a full body workout, it can help to strengthen your core muscles, benefit your cardiovascular health and improve your coordination. Equally importantly, SUP can boost your mental health by connecting you with nature and enabling you to experience the therapeutic effect of water. Once you’re confident on your board, you can even practice yoga on it!
Any tips for a beginner?
Respect mother nature. If you’re new to SUPing, don’t go out on your own, when it’s windy or when there are large waves.
Use your whole core to paddle. If you only use your arms, you’ll get very tired very quickly.
Don’t look down! It’s natural to want to keep an eye on your board and the water but you’ll have more stability if you stand up tall, keep your body weight over your toes and focus on the horizon.
Practice falling away from your board to minimise the risk of injury.
Always wear a leash so that your board stays tethered to you.
Where can I do SUP?
Fortunately, London has lots of waterways where you can do standup paddleboarding and lots of companies that offer lessons, group tours and social sessions. Check out Active 360 and Gutsy Girls, which provide SUP sessions in Paddington Basin, Richmond and Kew.
If you’d like to go further afield, you could try Moxie Unleashed (Brighton), SUP in a Bag (Cornwall) or Surfing Croyde Bay (Devon).
If you’d like to know how KBPT can help you to get fitter this summer, contact Kate at kate@kbpersonaltraining.co.uk
