Stand up Paddle (or SUP) is a watersport, where riders stand on the large board and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water. Stand-up paddleboarding emerged as a surfboard alternative. Older surfers at the end of their surf-career found that they could prolong their passion by catching waves standing and using a paddle. Although SUP has its roots in surfing, the sport has become a popular recreational activity for exercising and experiencing the outdoors. With a SUP you can explore ocean coastlines or find a relaxing spot on a quiet lake, all while having great fitness benefits for your whole body.
SUPs come in various shapes and sizes, depending on where and what you use your SUP for. Most commonly, SUPs are used for surfing or recreational touring. But other disciplines such as competitive racing or even SUP yoga (performing yoga on a SUP) are also enjoyed.
Most modern paddleboards range between 4-6 meters in length, 0.5-1.0 meters in width and weigh between 10-20kg and are available as hard or soft “shells”. A hard-shell boards is made out of epoxy resin/fiber glass whereas a soft inflatable board made out of foam and pvc plastic. Hard-shell boards are more agile, responsive and have better glide, whereas soft inflatable boards and convenient to store and move and generally cost less too.
Board shapes vary depending on the SUPs function, with a short and agile board for surfing, a slim and quick board for racing and a large and stable board for touring and recreation.
SUPs can be used and enjoyed in various ways. For myself, I usually visit secluded areas of my local lake and find a nice spot to relax with my friends, listen to music and enjoy being in nature.
Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to explore and experience the outdoors. There are minimal equipment needs, great fitness benefits and it is something you can do as a group with friends or family. So, the next time you’re enjoying a day by the lake or seaside, consider trying a SUP!
If you are interested in content on outdoor sports, consider reading my other blog posts:
Ski Touring – What you need to know for your First Tour
Titlis – A Freerider’s Paradise
Surfskating – Surfing the Streets
Bike Kingdom – Mountain Biking in Switzerland
Surfskating – 2 Week Learning Progression
I wish to try in one day! Thank you for the post!
Thanks for reading! I hope you get to try out SUP, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Let me know if you have any questions about the sport.