A fully approved British Stand Up Paddle Association School
STYLES & TYPES
Stand Up Paddle boarding has developed hugely over the past few years, you can now go to specific locations with rental options, or even adventure trip paddle boarding every day with guides, anywhere in the world. Fitness from paddle boarding is increased, along with huge mindset and wellbeing that comes with this sport. Most paddlers become addicted and cannot wait to get out as much as possible. The different types of paddle boarding include the following activities.
RECREATION AND FUN
Mostly the entry level of paddle boarding, this ranges from beginners to experienced paddle boarders, will include flat water and cruising on boards, it is generally the biggest market in SUP. Great to paddle with friends, family, this is relaxing and fun. This is a wonderful low impact or high impact exercise driven by yourself, combining and developing strength, core and endurance.
ADVENTURES AND TOURS
Investigating both local waterways, travelling between locations both in the UK and overseas, including longer day tours, different destinations and camping. If you tour, always have a safety plan, check weather forecasts, wind speed and direction, check your kit before leaving, if going with friends keep close to shore and plan trips within your fitness level, have communications ie phone, 2 way radio, inform people where when/where you are going. Be mindful that conditions can change quickly.
RACING
There are various types of paddle board racing, fun races like our Saltwater SUP inflatable 10.6 all comers race, flat water sprints, distance races, technical courses, as well as sprint beach starts including through surf. There are plenty of different classes of racing, including board length or type, team events, both local and international.
DOWNWINDING
Paddling downwind on open water from one location to another specific location, with an emphasis on speed, using swell and chasing waves. The best places to start are rivers and lakes to build up confident and technique. This is an exhilarating type of paddle boarding, longer boards are used for this.
RIVER SUP
Rivers provide varied range of challenges, from expanses of controlled flat water, flowing water ranging from gentle currents to fast moving rapids. Boards tend to be wider, with board deck pads needing as much grip as possible, for fast moving rivers, inflatables will bounce of rocks, hard boards are not used as they can suffer serious damage. A waist attachment leash is especially popular for white-water river sup where a paddler may require an easy release if caught up in obstacles like rocks, trees, even bridges.
YOGA SUP
SUP yoga is mostly run on flat water, using docking stations giving the holistic enjoyment of yoga outside in nature, on water. Practising yoga on a board that is constantly moving works your core muscles and uses muscles that you don’t really use in every day activities. Be creative and greet the sunrise with sun salutations.
