I grew up in Poole, but I was never into water sports when I was younger. Back then I preferred to spend my time and money on clothes and going out rather than exercise. But when I moved back to Poole three years ago, after 14 years away, one of the first things I did was to book a stand-up paddleboard (Sup) lesson. I instantly fell in love with it. Being on the water, surrounded by natural beauty, is amazing – it’s just a shame I didn’t discover it sooner.
Stand-up paddleboarding – or “supping”, as we call it – basically comes down to standing on the middle of a board with feet shoulder-width apart, and propelling yourself through the water with a long oar. You can do it on any body of water, from rivers and lakes to the sea, and it’s not just a fair-weather sport. I’m out all year round, and it can get very choppy. If you fall off, you fall off – you’re only going to get wet, there’s nothing to be afraid of.
There are races for the more serious, competitive “suppers”, but a lot of people just want to pootle around and muck about with their friends. I prefer the social side, though if I’m after a good workout, I’ll put in a bit more effort and get a good cadence going. I love the more challenging conditions – the rockier the water, the harder you have to work to stay upright and balanced, which is great for your core strength, your back, shoulders and arms. It’s great for a flat tummy, too – I’ve never had a six-pack before, but it’s coming. I’ve been a member of gyms in the past, but hated exercising indoors in a sweaty box. Through paddleboarding, I get a full-body workout in the most beautiful surroundings. And I’ve seen amazing wildlife up close, like seals.
Supping is good for your mind, too. I find it balances me. We were out last night, bobbing around on the glass-flat water, watching the sunset. That is just an awesome feeling that you cannot get from standing on the shore. Through paddleboarding I’ve made genuine friendships and found a whole new appreciation for the place I live.
My weekend workout
How often do you paddleboard? Three to four times a week, from 20 minutes to a couple of hours or more.
Favourite place to sup? I love heading out from Lake Pier in Hamworthy and crossing over to Arne.
Five ways to get started
1 You don’t need to live near the coast to try paddleboarding. In fact, rivers and recreational lakes can often be flatter and therefore easier places to learn. Just Google your local club or hire centre. Kit is expensive to buy, but very affordable to rent.
2 Standing on paddleboards is very straightforward – they are designed to provide quite a stable platform. Still, it’s worth having a lesson if it’s your first time or you might end up going round in circles.
3 Get used to the movement of the board on the water before trying to stand up. Start by paddling from a kneeling position. Once you’re comfortable, use both hands to help yourself on to your feet.
4 To propel yourself forwards, put your paddle in the water towards the nose of the board and pull it through the water in a straight line, keeping it as close to the edge of the board (without touching it) as you can. End your stroke when the paddle is in line with your ankles.
5 Paddleboarding is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially when the weather and water conditions are favourable.
Essential kit
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