Many people want to try paddle boarding, rooting its concept from surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a water sport that gets its name literally from three of its core concepts: standing up, paddle, and board. Although it sounds simple, it can still give you quite a challenge, not to mention the additional benefits of being an effective workout.
SUP is the act of thrusting oneself on a floating platform, usually on a SUP board, with the assistance of a paddle. It has been recorded that this sport originated thousands of years ago from different regions, dominantly in Africa, South America, and the ancient Polynesian culture. However, modern SUP became popular in the 1900s in Hawaii.
Thanks to its creative concept, SUP has become one of the fastest-growing sports around the world. The popularity has led to multiple variations of SUP, which includes racing, touring, yoga, and fishing.
With lots of thrill-seekers falling in love with this sport, what exactly makes stand-up paddleboarding so popular?
Let’s find out why you should try paddle boarding.
1. SUP is enjoyable for everyone.
Regardless of age, skill level, and body type, stand-up paddleboarding can be enjoyed by anyone! Because of the simplicity of the concept, you will only need two things to accomplish it: determination and lots of practice. Balancing on a board may sound intimidating at first, but once you take a few turns riding it, your confidence and skill will eventually build up.
2. It’s an all-around workout.
Stand-up paddleboarding involves multiple muscle groups that work together for a stronger state. When balancing yourself on top of the board, the core, the abdominal muscles, and the quads work together. Meanwhile, the biceps and triceps are getting amped up every time paddling motion is done.
3. It offers multiple health benefits.
It’s not only your muscles that get the benefits of paddling in a SUP, but other important parts of your body as well. It is a low-impact exercise that provides a great way of improving your breathing and endurance.
Balancing on the board is a great way to correct your posture and improve your body’s flexibility. Additionally, balancing yourself while controlling the paddle is a sure way to improve your hand-to-eye coordination.
4. It’s perfect for nature lovers.
If outdoor adventure is your thing, then you should definitely try SUP. Whether it be the beach, a lake, or a river, there are paramount options where you can enjoy stand up paddleboarding. Taking slow strokes will allow you to experience nature and breathtaking sceneries better than ever.
5. It’s a great way to widen your social circle.
With SUP gaining popularity across the globe, numerous SUP clubs and events have been created to honor this exciting water sport. Getting acquainted with people with the same interest as yours is a great way to make new friends.
As a slow-paced water sport, SUP can be done in pairs and in groups and will definitely give you moments to remember and guaranteed fun along the way.
6. It lets you receive that needed Vitamin D.
Being under the sun for sufficient periods will give you that beautiful tan, plus the additional benefits of vitamin D. This vitamin is made from cholesterol in your skin that has been exposed to the sun. That’s why getting enough sunlight is very important for maintaining optimal vitamin D levels.
7. It’s a great way to meditate.
After a stressful week at work, who doesn’t want to just relax, meditate and recharge body, mind, and soul? By engaging in SUP, you can have time to yourself and meditate while slowly pacing your way along with the breeze of fresh air.
If you want it to take to the next level, there’s a subcategory of SUP especially made for deep meditation: SUP yoga.
SUP yoga is pretty straightforward; all you have to do is get into yoga positions while balancing on a paddleboard. By paying attention to your breath, posture, and balance, SUP yoga provides a greater sense of mindfulness.
Conclusion
Stand-up paddleboarding is an all-around water sport with tons of perks that makes it more popular as the years go by. Whatever entices you to try it out, the most important thing is that you are having fun!
