San Diego is crazy for paddle sports, and Standup Paddleboarding or SUP is the latest trend in the local scene. Kayakers and surfers have merged the most enjoyable of both sports to create a fun and energetic new way for people of all different ages and abilities to take pleasure in the water wherever they go.
SUP stands for standing upright on a board and utilizes a paddle to propel yourself around. Nowadays, skilled SUP surfers are able to ride waves at the same performance level as traditional surfers. Likewise, people who are not professional surfers are taking advantage of SUP boards for leisurely trips around flatwater lakes and bays. There are open ocean SUP races, and SUP yoga classes, and even adventurous athletes are using SUP boards to tackle whitewater rapids and make long-distance excursions.
The SUP’s distinctive feature is its ability to feel more natural standing rather than on your stomach. It also allows you to be more likely to be higher above the ground, and feel more comfortable. For those who are into fitness, it can be a great all-around exercise. Paddling strengthens the lower and upper body as well as balancing on the board requires the legs and core to perform the same.
SUP equipment can be bought and rented out at surf shops and watersports facilities all over San Diego’s beaches and bays. Although there are instruction sessions available for first-timers, many people prefer to learn the sport on their own. A few basic pointers should help you get started quickly:
- Get up on your feet, with the paddle in your hand, then get down to your knees.
- Keep your knees slightly bent, and your feet slightly separated. To maintain your center of gravity above the board Make small adjustments to your knees or hips.
- The speed of your board is your friend. When your board is moving in water, it’s much easier to control your balance and maneuver.
Learning to Standup Paddleboard is similar to learning to ride a bike Once you get the knack of it, you never forget.
