What’s SUP?
The latest craze in the sports world is SUP, or stand-up paddle surfing. It is immensely fun, a great workout, and can be done on lakes, rivers, bays, or oceans…pretty much anywhere there is water.
When I’m not out hiking, I’ve been spending my time SUPing here in Southern California. It is very easy to do, and all you need is a little balance!
How to SUP
I started out by renting boards the local bay…this is a great way to figure out if you’re going to like it as much as me! Boards are about 32 inches wide vs. 20 inches for a regular surfboard. They are a lot longer too! Get a paddle that is 5-8 inches taller than you, and you’re ready to go. Get the board in the water, and climb on into a kneeling position. Once you are balanced and comfortable, stand up, and start paddling!
Why SUPing is so Popular
- It’s fun! Stand-up paddlesurfing is a fun activity for people of all ages. You have to be outdoors on the water to do it, which makes it enjoyable! aahh, nature!
- It’s a fantastic workout You stand on a board and propel yourself forward using a paddle. Since you’re balancing the entire time, it is a great core workout. The paddling motion of course works the upper body. Not that many fun workouts strengthen your legs, arms, back, shoulders, and rear all at the same time, while being low impact!
- You don’t have to get wet! Unlike surfing, which involves getting soaked by waves, immense strength to paddle out and catch a wave, and getting tossed about the in water, SUPing on calm water means you won’t get wet. Ok, sure, your feet and legs will get a little wet when you climb onto the board, but unless you are SUPing in rough waters, the likelihood of wiping out is small.
Equipment and Gear
Gear I do definitely recommend getting is: a high UPF top, a convenient hydration waistpack or backpack, and lots of sunscreen!
- Hydration: To stay hydrated, the best option is one of the 3 SUP specific packs from CamelBak. I have been using their brand new Tahoe pack, which is a waist pack designed for SUPers in mind. I got a chance to test one out early…they will be available for sale in outdoor stores in Spring 2012.
ExOfficio Sol Cool top - UPF 50! - UPF rated top. The new ExOfficio Sol Cool long sleeve crew neck top is my new go to layer when I’m SUPing (and hiking!). It weighs just 4 ounces, so feels super light weight on the skin, it dries quickly, and most importantly, the UPF rating of 50 makes it more protective than most others on the market.
- Moisturizer for when you get home! I hate dry skin, and being out in the sun on a stand up paddleboard can do a number on my skin…I’ve been using a new all natural, plant-derived moisturizer called Trilipiderm that is great for dried out skin. This stuff is pricey, but it is non-greasy, smells good, and most importantly, it works!
Trilipiderm lotion
Happy trails, and happy SUPing!
We have a large SUPing community in Jacksonville – not even just the ocean. I have seen people SUPing in a creek that is loaded with alligators!
SUPing looks fun. I’ve seen people doing it. If it’s as easy as you say, I’ll give it a try. Thanks for the Trilipiderm lotion recommendation. I did get some and it’s great!