As a new year begins, many people decide it is time to get fit. However, many people who take up an exercise regimen in January give up their goal within two months. One of the ways to elevate your likelihood of success is to add diversity to your workouts. Here in Florida, paddle boarding is a great way to achieve fitness – mainly because it allows you to be outside rather than inside a crowded gym.
Once you master basic paddling, there are many ways to exercise on a SUP. Here are just a few ideas.
Fitness Alternatives on a SUP
Long Distance Paddling
Paddleboarding long distances provide a powerful alternative to a conventional upper-body workout. A paddle board workout will activate the arms, back, shoulders, and abs – resulting in an extensive and comprehensive workout. To reach more challenging levels of paddleboarding, experts recommend paddling for at least 40 minutes. This duration will provide enough paddle strokes on both sides of the board to work both arms. You can add pushups to strengthen chest muscles as well.
SUP Cardio
Paddleboarding naturally delivers an effective cardio workout. A constant paddling motion will elevate the heart rate, but those who are proficient in SUP can add squat jumps or burpees to really get the heart pumping. The balance required to perform these movements will also strengthen core muscles in no time.
SUP Yoga
Yoga is one of the most effective ways to increase flexibility and get fit – but performing yoga poses on a paddle board takes it to another level. Paddleboard yoga is more challenging due to the balance required -but the right board will make it possible. SUP yoga adds the serenity of water views and natural surroundings to an already relaxing activity – especially for those already proficient in yoga.
SUP Core
The desired beach-ready Florida body often includes 6-pack abs, which a challenging core workout will provide. However, even if you aren’t looking for defined abdominals, a strong core is great for posture and overall fitness. There are a variety of core exercises you can do on a SUP – whether plank, side plank, sit-ups, or leg lifts, your core will need to provide stability on the board. This means participants will get twice the workout while on a paddle board than exercising on solid ground. A SUP core fitness workout is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your core and optimize your fitness levels.
SUP Surfing
SUP surfing is gaining in popularity as people realize that it is easier than conventional surfing. This is because a traditional surfer has to stand up on the board, while a SUP surfer is already in the standing position. You will have to paddle extensively to catch waves, making this a great upper-body workout. Although paddle surfing is considered to be one of the most entertaining ways to use a SUP, you are not likely to find too many waves here on the Florida Gulf Coast.
Ride and Paddle Rents Paddle Boards
Paddleboarding allows you to explore Sarasota and Siesta Key from a new perspective.
A paddle board also provides easy access to some of the small, uninhabited islands off the mainland of Siesta Key. Because of the lightweight nature and portability of the paddleboards we rent, you can easily take a break and hike along the shore to discover wildlife and birds up close.
Whether you are an accomplished paddle boarder visiting our area – or a Sarasota resident looking to try the activity out for the first time – Ride and Paddle can provide the equipment you need to discover a whole new way to stay fit! Don’t forget – fitness enthusiasts can also rent bikes and kayaks from Ride and Paddle.
