Stand Up Paddle-boarding or SUP is an exciting new version of the traditional surfing that took the world by storm during the last few years. Where-ever you go to a beach, lake or river, you see people - young and old and in all shapes and sizes - propelling themselves along through the water with a paddle whilst standing upright on a board. NSP stand up paddle boards also come in many shapes and sizes and you should pick one that is most effective for your weight, size and the purpose why you want it - racing or relaxing?
Paddling along gentle waves while balancing yourself on a big board with a single banana-shaped oar to propel you forward, is not only fun, but also a great work-out and an exercise in balancing! It is an excellent outdoor activity for people who want to learn to surf, or those who are too old for surfing, but still want to experience the joy of riding a wave. The boards are bigger and thicker than a traditional long board, allowing one to catch and ride a wave much easier.
Another advantage is that it is easier than surfing and thus suitable for young and old. Because one propels oneself forward with a specially designed paddle, one is not dependent on waves to move forward and can thus also enjoy the sport in the calm waters of rivers and lakes. Apart from being great fun, it is also an excellent workout in supreme locations.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
Another indication of how new the sport is, is that the first SUP board race was only held in 2007 in California. This 7 mile race in which 34 male and female paddlers competed, also heralded the popular annual Tahoe Nalu Paddle Festival. Today, these stand up paddlers have become a common sight along most coasts and lakes around the world.
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The all arounders are best suited for beginners and those who just want to paddle or fish in calm waters close to shore. These ones have a planing hull like a surfboard and are 10 to 12 feet long and 29 to 36 inches wide. The boards used for racing, touring and downwind SUP have a pointed nose and a more rounded hull and are longer (12-14 feet).
A new SUP board can cost you between US$600 to US$1500, but there is also a huge second-hand market. The boards can be hollow or solid and are made from different materials. The secret is to find one that is most suitable for your size and needs.
Paddling along gentle waves while balancing yourself on a big board with a single banana-shaped oar to propel you forward, is not only fun, but also a great work-out and an exercise in balancing! It is an excellent outdoor activity for people who want to learn to surf, or those who are too old for surfing, but still want to experience the joy of riding a wave. The boards are bigger and thicker than a traditional long board, allowing one to catch and ride a wave much easier.
Another advantage is that it is easier than surfing and thus suitable for young and old. Because one propels oneself forward with a specially designed paddle, one is not dependent on waves to move forward and can thus also enjoy the sport in the calm waters of rivers and lakes. Apart from being great fun, it is also an excellent workout in supreme locations.
SUP originated in Hawaii and only became popular in the USA and other countries during the past nine years. Last year, it was documented as the most popular and fastest growing water sport in the USA. The first dedicated SUP store in North America only opened its doors in 2007 in Santa Barbara, California. The owner, Deb Thomas, was also the first female standup paddler in North America in 2005.
Another indication of how new the sport is, is that the first SUP board race was only held in 2007 in California. This 7 mile race in which 34 male and female paddlers competed, also heralded the popular annual Tahoe Nalu Paddle Festival. Today, these stand up paddlers have become a common sight along most coasts and lakes around the world.
The sport is equally popular among professional, competitive surfers, laymen and recreational fishermen. The two main types of boards are All Arounder and those used for racing or long distance touring. These include specific styles made for women, kids, river racing, etc. Inflatable boards are becoming increasingly popular because they are so easy to transport.
The all arounders are best suited for beginners and those who just want to paddle or fish in calm waters close to shore. These ones have a planing hull like a surfboard and are 10 to 12 feet long and 29 to 36 inches wide. The boards used for racing, touring and downwind SUP have a pointed nose and a more rounded hull and are longer (12-14 feet).
A new SUP board can cost you between US$600 to US$1500, but there is also a huge second-hand market. The boards can be hollow or solid and are made from different materials. The secret is to find one that is most suitable for your size and needs.
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