Gaining popularity by the day, stand up paddle boarding is an excellent addition to any exercise routine. If you’re lucky enough to live by the coast, a river or a lake, there’s never been a better time to get on board and invest in a brand-new SUP.
As we’ll go on to cover, stand up paddle boarding isn’t only for leisure–it’s actually a great way to improve your physical and mental health. If you’ve been looking into SUPs or you’re simply curious to know more, we’ve compiled a quick list of the major health benefits!
#1 A Full Body Workout
Even though it's considered to be a low impact activity, paddle boarding is certainly a full body workout. From your arms to your legs and core, you’d be surprised at just how many different muscles and joints are engaged each time you head onto the water.
As a workout, it also allows you to burn a significant number of calories. Each paddle stroke engages your shoulders, arms, and back, while your legs work to maintain balance on the board. Your core muscles are constantly active, stabilising your body as you navigate through the water. This comprehensive engagement of muscle groups means that SUP paddling not only tones your body but also improves your overall strength and endurance.
Imagine combining the benefits of resistance training, balance exercises, and cardiovascular workouts all in one enjoyable session on the water. Whether you’re paddling leisurely or pushing yourself with more intense strokes, every movement contributes to a healthier, stronger you.
#2 Core Strength
Stand up paddle boarding is a fantastic way to build core strength. Maintaining your balance on the board requires continuous engagement of your abdominal muscles, obliques, and lower back. Every time you paddle, you twist your torso, which further activates and strengthens your core muscles. This is not just beneficial for your abs, but also improves your overall stability and posture.
As you become more adept at balancing and paddling over time, you’ll tend to notice significant improvements in your core strength. This level of core strength is great for your overall health, and even helps you to perform everyday activities with greater ease and reduce the risk of injuries.
Strong core muscles are critical for proper alignment and support for your spine. In turn, this can alleviate back pain and improve your overall mobility. With a regular paddle boarding routine, you'll develop a rock-solid core that supports all aspects of your physical fitness.
There are even boards available that are purposely designed for yoga!
#3 Improves Joint Stability
Stand up paddle boarding is a low-impact exercise that significantly improves joint stability. Unlike high-impact activities such as running, which can strain your joints, SUP paddling provides a gentle yet effective workout that enhances joint health. Balancing on the board requires small, continuous adjustments by your stabilising muscles, particularly around the knees, hips, and ankles.
These micro-movements strengthen the supporting muscles and ligaments, increasing joint stability and flexibility over time. Another thing to note is that there are rigid and inflatable paddle boards available, which have a softer deck area and are easy on your feet, muscles, and joints. So, if you’re looking to overcome joint-related issues or simply prevent them from occurring, an SUP could be a great option!
The low-impact nature of the activity allows you to enjoy a vigorous workout without placing undue stress on your joints. Plus, the buoyancy of the water further reduces the risk of joint injuries, making it a safe and effective exercise for people of all ages and fitness levels.
#4 Vitamin D
One of the often-overlooked benefits of stand up paddle boarding is the opportunity to soak up some much-needed vitamin D. Spending time outdoors in the sunlight helps your body produce this essential nutrient, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, teeth, and immune function. Vitamin D deficiency is also common, especially for those who tend to spend a lot of time indoors. This deficiency may also lead to various health issues.
By incorporating SUP paddling into your exercise routine, you’ll both enjoy the physical and mental benefits of the activity, as well as give your body a natural boost of vitamin D. Of course, Australia’s sun is also known for its intensity, so always remember to wear the right clothing, protect your skin with sunscreen, and avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays.
One way to counteract this is to set up a paddling routine in the early morning or early evening–this way, you’ll avoid the most harsh rays and be able to paddle for longer. Overall, SUPs offer a perfect balance of enjoying the great outdoors, while reaping the health benefits of increased vitamin D levels.
Ready to embrace the many health benefits? Check out our fantastic range of stand up paddle boards now!
#5 Building Stamina
Building stamina is another significant benefit of stand up paddle boarding. Paddling continuously really engages your cardiovascular system, which then elevates your heart and lung capacity over time. As you paddle against the resistance of the water, its current and even the wind, your body works harder to maintain speed and balance, which improves overall endurance.
Regular SUP sessions can lead to noticeable improvements in your stamina, allowing you to perform physical activities for longer periods without fatigue. This increased cardiovascular fitness not only supports better health but also enhances your performance in other sports and daily activities. The more you paddle, the stronger and more resilient your cardiovascular system becomes, leading to a healthier, more energetic you.
#6 Social Connection
Although it might seem like a solo pursuit at first glance, stand-up paddle boarding is actually a highly social activity that provides ample opportunities for connection and camaraderie. Whether you join a SUP group, participate in a class, or simply head out on the water with friends and family, you’ll find that paddle boarding is a fantastic way to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.
The shared experience of paddling together also creates a real sense of community and mutual support. Of course, participating in these types of social activities can also boost your mood, reduce feelings of loneliness, and improve your overall mental well-being. Plus, exploring beautiful waterways and enjoying the natural surroundings with others adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the activity.
So, if you’re looking to combine fitness with fun and friendship, you really can’t go wrong here!
#7 Reduces Stress
Exercise is a well-known form of stress relief, and stand up paddle boarding is no different! The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and serene water environments creates a powerful antidote to stress. As you paddle, your body actually releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones that naturally reduce stress and anxiety levels.
The rhythmic motion of paddling, the soothing sounds of water, and the beautiful natural surroundings all contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation. Being out on the water allows you to disconnect from daily stresses and immerse yourself in the present moment.
There's also something to be said about the mental health benefits of being out in nature, especially Australia’s beautiful oceans, rivers, and lakes. Whether you’re paddling alone for some quiet time or with others for social interaction, stand up paddle boarding is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Inflatable Vs. Rigid SUPs: What's the Difference?
If you’re ready to get started and buy a brand-new stand-up paddle board, you'll come across two main types: inflatable and rigid or solid. Each has its unique advantages and features, so let’s quickly cover them now.
Inflatable SUPs are made from durable PVC material and can be deflated and rolled and packed up for easy transport and storage. These boards are generally more affordable and versatile, as well as suitable for a variety of water conditions, including rivers, lakes, and even ocean waves. They also come with a soft exterior surface.
The Shark 10' All Round Inflatable SUP
Rigid SUPs, on the other hand, are typically constructed from materials like fiberglass, epoxy, or plastic. These boards offer superior performance in terms of speed, stability, and maneuverability, making them the preferred choice for serious paddlers, racers, and surfers. Solid boards allow for a more rigid and responsive ride, which can be beneficial in choppy or rough water conditions. However, they require more storage space and may be heavier and more challenging to transport.
SUP Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to stand up paddle boarding, start with a quality board, calm waters and take a lesson or two from a certified instructor. Learning the proper techniques for paddling and balancing can make a big difference in your confidence and enjoyment of the sport.
Remember to stay safe, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy all of the physical and mental health benefits. Check out our recent article for a more detailed breakdown!
Explore Our Range of Stand Up Paddle Boards
Missing that island holiday more than you could imagine? Pick up your very own stand up paddleboard from PaddleZone and hit the water once more. We’ve got a fantastic range of stand up paddle boards for sale, including top-of-the-line models from ECS, Shark, and more! Also, don’t forget to check out our range of accessories.
As you can see, stand up paddle boards are an excellent recreational activity, the perfect opportunity for sightseeing, and provide a range of health benefits–so why wait? Embrace the adventure and open to the door to a new world of exercise and exploration opportunities!
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