It’s one of the fastest growing sports and one I first had a go at a couple of years ago. Now, with my own inflatable board, it is one of my favourite ways to spend an hour or two. I get out on the water as often as I can, and I’ve found a new way to explore my local area, and further afield. Here are just 5 reasons to try stand-up paddleboarding.
The Views
Being on the water offers a completely different perspective on the world. Whether you’re on a river, canal, lake, loch or the sea, you’ll see something different from if you were just walking on the bank. You’re sharing the water with lots of wildlife and because you’re so quiet on a SUP, you can get a lot closer and see more of their natural habitats. Just this weekend, I paddled past ducks, deer, moorhens and a pair of nesting swans who thankfully just let me float on by.
It’s also worth looking down at the water, too – the fish! And the plants!
Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation are very personal things. For me, being on my own with my thoughts is time well spent. I’ve made great progress recently on mindfulness. Meditation is also something I’ve been practicing a lot more since the pandemic took hold, and I do find being on the water offers a great opportunity for inward focus. I’ve often found answers on the water.
Exercise
The idea of exercise is not everyone’s idea of fun, but hear me out. I don’t always go out for a cardio workout, but it is definitely possible. The main benefit for me – aside from my other reasons to try stand-up paddleboarding – is the strength-building. Even a gentle paddle is working my core keeping my balance, and my back, arms and legs for the paddling itself. Getting out in the fresh air and toning muscles at the same time? That’s reason enough on its own!
The Social Element
Stand-up paddleboarding is a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family. I’ve also joined groups organised sessions where I don’t know anyone, and that doesn’t last very long because we get chatting. It’s nice to have a chat, share a story, and just watch people enjoying being out in nature, whatever the weather. There are lots of great paddles out there that take in a pub beer garden or waterside café, which help make a real occasion of it.
Relaxation
Slightly different from mindfulness, because relaxation can take many different forms. A wonderful thing about a SUP is that it can be your transport – maybe even to a little bay or secret part of the river bank that isn’t accessible on foot, which is idyllic when you find such a place! – and it can also be the destination; I’ve been known to take a bottle of water and my book and just escape from it all for a while. Just dangling my toes in the water as I daydream.
There are just 5 reasons to try stand-up paddleboarding, but there are many more. There are lots of places you can give it a go now, and if you catch the bug as quickly as I did, there are lots of boards on the market if you want your own and the freedom to go whenever you want. My board is an iRocker and I’ve been very pleased with it.
I did fall in the first couple of times, I won’t lie, but now I’ve got the hang of it I don’t get wet. If you get a chance, go for it! Follow more of my adventures on Instagram.
The Ro Show 