BODY BUILDING ON A BOARD
Want to crush your fitness goals in 2023? Skip the gym membership and buy a paddleboard instead.
Stand up paddling, also known as SUP, is a popular water sport that combines the excitement of surfing with the benefits of a full-body workout. Not only is stand up paddling a fun way to spend a day on the water, it is also an excellent form of physical exercise that can help improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles, and improve balance and coordination.
One of the great things about stand up paddling is that it is a low-impact activity, which means that it is easy on the joints and suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are an experienced athlete looking for a new challenge or a beginner looking for a way to get in shape, stand up paddling has something to offer you.
One of the key benefits of stand up paddling is that it provides a full-body workout. Paddling requires the use of both upper and lower body muscles, including the core, arms, and legs. As you paddle, you are working your back, chest, and shoulder muscles, as well as your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes.
Stand up paddling also requires good balance and coordination, which can help improve overall body awareness and control. In addition to the physical benefits, stand up paddling can also provide mental and emotional benefits. Being out on the water and enjoying the beauty of nature can be a great way to reduce stress and clear the mind. Paddling also requires focus and concentration, which can help improve mental clarity and focus.
So if you are looking for a fun and enjoyable way to get in shape, give stand up paddling a try. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, you will be sure to enjoy the many benefits that this exciting water sport has to offer.
EXERCISE
BODY EXERCISE
Standing on a board and paddling engages every muscle in your body, both large and small muscle groups. It is low-impact and easy on the joints and with proper technique there are few injuries sustained from paddling.
Paddling improves flexibility because it requires motions of kneeling, bending and standing in a variety of poses.
The actions of paddling are excellent cross-training for golf, tennis, skiing, cycling and running.
EXERCISE
LUNGS, HEART, MIND
The act of paddling improves cardivascular endurance, strengthens heart muscles and enhances lung capacity.
Studies have proven that spending time on or near water and absorbing the energy of nature increases dopamine levels, reduces stress and improves mental cognition. The mental effects of paddling are calming and mildly addictive
In general, taking your workout outside instead of the gym reduces your exposure to toxins and bacteria.REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
What to buy instead of a gym membership to reach your fitness goals in 2023?
There are two options when it comes to buying paddleboards - composite (aka hard) boards and inflatable (aka pump up) boards. See which board option is right for you and the accessories you'll need to stay safe on the water:
EQUIPMENT
COMPOSITE BOARD
Buy a composite board if you have:
1. A vehicle with cross bar roof racks, a truck or a van or have direct access to waterfront property where no transport is needed.
2. Access to indoor or outdoor storage space at least 11' long by 34" wide. Indoor space will help your board last longer and stay cleaner.
3. The ability to lift over 25 lbs. Most hard boards weigh 23-38 lbs depending on construction type.
PROS - Excellent speed and stability, lifetime durability, low maintenance.
CONS - Require storage and transport accommodations, can be heavy and hard to carry long distances.
EQUIPMENT
INFLATABLE BOARD
Buy an inflatable board if you have:
1. A vehicle without roof racks or don't have a large vehicle and your board requires transport to access the water.
2. Limited storage space at home and on the road.
3. Plans to travel on an airplane with your board.
4. Physical limits on lifting objects over 20 lbs.
PROS - Compact design for easy transport and storage, durability in rocky and rugged coastlines.CONS - Can be less stable than hard boards, requires inflation maintenance, can overheat in high temperatures and break at the seams.
Are you ready to be the best version of yourself in 2023?
It can happen on a paddleboard with time, dedication and an investment in yourself. If you calculate the cost of a monthly gym membership over a year, it's about the same as a one-time investment in a paddleboard. Plus, once you get a board, the water access is free. No greens fees, no ongoing auto-drafts, it only requires you to get motivated and get out on the water. You can meet new people, explore new places and expand your horizons further than you thought possible.
Learn more about the gear you need
Browse our tagged products below to learn more about the equipment. If you need more information, please contact us by phone (252) 638-3000 or here. We eat product manuals for breakfast and YouTube videos for lunch so we're always up-to-date with the best information for you.