It’s been about three years that my family has had a Stand Up Paddleboard on the Big Rideau Lake and since then, we’ve discovered so much more about this new trend. Going out around the bay with my cousins during the summer is a great way to create laughs and share memories. From a fun leisure activity to using it for daily exercise, there are many benefits and things you may not know about the SUP.
Do it for you - Fitness and Mental Benefits
Not only are the SUP’s super fun, they’re also a great fitness activity! In fact, its been used for year in Hawaii as a way to stay in shape when the waves are not sufficient for surfing. By using your balance in order to remain upright and propel yourself in the water, you are working many muscles in your body. These include legs, core, and abdominal muscle groups to maintain your balance while your arms, back, and shoulders are being used to move through the water. Being a low impact exercise, you are unlikely to damage the tendons and ligaments of your joints, leaving you worry free. Feeling hot after your paddle? Best way to cool down is to just jump in the water! There are many more fitness and mental health benfits to this sport and here is a great article outlining some of them.
The size is right - What SUP Length?
Knowing what suits you best before you buy is a must:
Short boards (under 9’): Designed specifically for kids, short boards are more manoeuvrable than longer boards
Medium boards (9’ to 12’): Ideal for all-around use on calm and rough lakes. These boards tend to track straighter.
Long boards (12.6’ & 14’): Ideal for racing or touring, moving faster, and keeping up with stronger conditions
What Board is for me? Traditional vs. Softy
Soft:
- Good for novice/beginners
- Less expensive to purchase
- Efficient for a variety of water encounters
- Soft landing if balance is lost
- Durability: can take much more abuse that a hard top
Traditional (hard top):
- Can be used by beginners but performs best with more experience
- Efficient for a variety of water encounters
- Built for performance compared to leisure, and a more enjoyable on the water ride
- Faster, and more fun to ride
SUP Safety
Stand Up Paddle Boarding is getting more and more popular; knowing the rules and regulations, like driving a boat, is important.
According to Transport Canada, this fun activity is considered a navigation device. Whether you are crossing your bay, or going for a 5k paddle, a Canadian approved lifejacket or PFD must on board and available for immediate use. Failing to provide safety devices consequences to a minimum $200 fine.
Avoiding this penalty may not seem convenient when having to wear a bulky lifejacket, however, a more favourable option such as, waist-pack inflatable or low profile paddling vest, is also acceptable.
All in all, I recommend trying it out if you haven’t already. Get out on the water, have fun, and be safe!
Want to try before you buy? Book a rental here at Len's Cove - Click for Details!
Which boards can you buy from us? Check out AKONA's website here for some of the best value on the water.
