Whether you call this fast growing sport YOLO (You Only Live Once) boarding, YOLOing, paddle surfing, stand up paddling, or SUP, it is a fun, easy way to go play on the water. With minimum equipment, you can paddle anything from ocean surf to lakes and rivers—no waves required.
Paddle boarding combines canoeing or kayaking with surfing allowing the paddler to stand while pushing themselves through the water with side to side paddle strokes. Stand-up paddling offers an amazing full body workout and is becoming a favorite cross-training activity for skiers, snowboarders and other athletes. Some people even compare the experience to “yoga on water.” And since you're standing at your full height, you'll enjoy excellent views of everything from sea creatures to what's on the horizon. It's almost like walking on water!
Choosing the right board is determined by a combination of paddler weight and skill, your intended use and the local conditions. Paddles have an angle or “elbow” in the shaft for maximum efficiency. Choose a paddle that's roughly 6” to 8” taller than you are. Make sure you wear clothes that move with you and can get wet, have adequate sun protection like sunscreen and glasses, and since The U.S. Coast Guard classifies stand up paddleboards as vessels, always wear a PFD (personal floatation devise) whenever you're paddling navigable water.
Destin Real Estate Company is the presenting sponsor of the 2011 YOLO Board Stand-Up Paddle Series that will run from May 2011 to August 2011 at the WaterColor BoatHouse at Western Lake in WaterColor. Scheduled race dates (weather permitting) are: May 26th, June 23rd, July 14th, and August 11th. For more information, contact 850-622-5760.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
Some common beginner mistakes that are easy to make include: bad posture, staring at your feet instead of the horizon, the paddle elbow facing you, having both hands on the paddle shaft (your top hand belongs at the very top of the paddle, on the grip), and standing straight-kneed - it is much easier to balance with bent knees. Try to avoid these and you’ll have a lot more fun in the water!
