You keep hearing, reading, dreaming about it (ok, maybe not that), but you’re still not sure – what is the mighty SUP (stand up paddling) and more importantly – why should you care and start doing it? Well, we sat down and put together a short introduction to this fun and active sport that has taken the world and the yoga world by storm.

What Is Stand Up Paddle Boarding?

To put it shortly – stand up paddle surfing or simply SUP is a form of surfing where the surfer uses a paddle to move through the water while standing on a surfboard (a specially designed surfboard). The sport is quickly gaining popularity all over the world because of its simplicity and quick learning curve.

The History of Stand Up Paddle Boarding

The history of stand up paddle boarding comes from its Polynesian roots. The Hawaiian translation is Ku Hoe He’e Nalu which means – to stand, to paddle, to surf a wave. So it’s no wonder that the modern version of this sport has originated in the Hawaiian Islands where in the early 1960 surf instructors would stand on their long boards and paddle out with paddles to take pictures of the tourists learning to surf.

Why You Should Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Today, stand up paddle boarding is popular around the world and holds an advantage over surfing or windsurfing – you do not need to wait for waves, good winds, as well as no special preparation or physical condition, is needed to practice it.

SUP – An Incredible Exercise

The full-body workout SUP provides is just unbelievable – it offers a combination of balance, strength, and endurance which are exercised at all times, whether you are paddling or just balancing on your board. It’s not only an excellent core workout but it also makes your legs, back, shoulders, arms, and toes work together.

For those who are new to any water sports, it’s important and good to know that SUP is a very low impact exercise, which means that the chances of you damaging your tendons, ligaments, or joints is very low. So yes, you can relax and just enjoy the workout and the ride! And what a ride – in addition to the mere pleasure of being on the water you are actually doing a cardio exercise, burning calories and hey – lowering the chances of a heart attack and a stroke.

But you know what we love about SUP so much – it’s not just these incredible benefits, but also a unique way to escape, relax, relieve stress and just chill!

SUP and Yoga

Today’s wellness world is incredible – it constantly provides us with new experiences. And so do SUP boards. We’re talking SUP yoga, of course. Why do it? Performing yoga while on a paddleboard adds an extra dimension of balance and challenge to the practice as well as a whole lot of fun! In addition to that, having a SUP yoga class is far more pleasant and relaxing than being in a crowded studio or gym. We’re talking yoga on the water, right, does this get any better?

Try it This Summer

Stand up paddle boarding is a versatile and enjoyable sport that offers numerous health benefits and a unique way to connect with nature. Whether you’re looking for a full-body workout, a new way to practice yoga, or simply a fun activity to enjoy on the water, SUP has something to offer everyone. So why not give it a try and discover the joys of stand up paddle boarding for yourself?