Paddle boarding is an endlessly fun water sport that’s gaining popularity all over the world. It involves sitting, standing, kneeling, or laying down on a buoyant board similar to a surfboard. On a paddleboard, you can use your arms or a paddle to propel yourself through relatively calm, flat water, or to surf ocean waves or even brave wild river rapids.
While there are a few different paddling stances and techniques, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is the most popular method.
What are the benefits of stand-up paddle boarding?

SUP is incredibly popular because it’s a full-body workout that requires balance and stability. Though it’s not as easy as it looks, stand-up paddle boarding isn’t high-intensity or potentially damaging to your body. Paddlers love the sport because it helps them create core strength and stability, while also offering a tranquil way to spend time on the water.
It may take first-time paddlers a few attempts to get comfortable balancing and maneuvering, even on calm water. Eventually you’ll get the hang of it, gaining enough skill to practice paddling long distances. In fact, many experienced paddlers enjoy SUPing on a larger body of water like a lake, reservoir, and even ocean bays and harbors.
If you’ve been looking for a fun water sport that’s low impact and ideal for relaxation, stand-up paddle boarding may be just the thing for you.
What do paddle boarders need to get started?
The most important piece of equipment for paddling is the stand-up paddle board itself. There are a few different types of SUP boards, and some work better in certain applications and conditions. Here are a few of the most common paddle boards to consider.
Inflatable stand-up paddle boards
Inflatable SUPs are great for paddlers who like to travel and bring their board along with them. They’re very sturdy when inflated, and extremely compact and portable otherwise. If you’re planning a long-distance adventure, you can fly to your paddling excursions with an inflatable SUP without worrying about oversized baggage fees.
Touring stand-up paddle boards
If you plan to try SUPing over long distances, touring boards are a must. Not only are they designed to cut through the water more effectively, but they’re longer, which makes them faster and more stable. They often include cargo nets for transporting other gear and accessories you may want to use during your excursion.
Touring boards are easier to use when it comes to gliding and moving more quickly through the water. If you want to travel farther and faster while expending less energy, then the best SUP for you is a touring board.
Racing stand-up paddle boards
If speed is your goal, you’ll want a long, narrow racing board. Beginner paddlers will find racers to be more difficult to use because the narrower board width makes it harder to balance. But if you’ve got great core strength and a strong sense of balance, then you’ll love getting some speed on one of these SUP boards.
SUP yoga boards

A growing number of yoga enthusiasts are combining their love for asanas with their desire to spend time on the water. If you have a desire to try practicing SUP yoga, you’ll need a wide stand-up paddle board for stability, with a traction pad for improved grip.
SUP yoga will challenge your strength and stability, but it’s worth it! Imagine practicing your sun salutation in the middle of a beautiful lake as the water rocks you gently. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more peaceful pastime.
Paddle board paddles
Once you decide which type of board is right for you, it’s time to find the perfect paddle. SUP paddles have a t-shaped grip on one end, and a paddle blade on the other. Because you’ll use your paddle while standing, it needs to be longer than a kayak or canoe paddle.
Paddles are available in aluminum, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and wood varieties. They all vary in buoyancy, weight, durability, and strength. Fiberglass tends to offer the best possible combination of durability, weight, and price, so it’s a great choice for beginner paddlers.
What are you waiting for?

If you’ve always wanted to find a safe, low-impact sport that’s just as fun to practice in a group as it is solo, then check out stand-up paddle boarding. You’ll love the tranquility of the water and the sense of accomplishment that comes with each great workout.