What’s SUP doc?

When the idea came up to try Stand-Up Paddling (SUP), my initial reaction was “that looks pretty hard, this might take some skill”. But not one to be deterred, we opted as a group to give it a shot. It looked pretty cool and I’m not one to be upstaged by Jennifer Aniston and Matthew McConaughey who are out there rocking the SUP scene.

So one sunny Saturday morning we got a nice little NuBe group together and headed out to Deep Cove for some intro SUP lessons and some time out on the water. We were met by our Australian instructor Adam who immediately took us through the basics. Truth is, Stand-up Paddling is actually pretty simple to get started. Keep your legs shoulder length apart, bend the knees, grab the end of the paddle and keep the top arm straight as the blade enters the pulling towards the hip. First time out you’ll want to find some flat water as once you start getting some waves the experience becomes exponentially more challenging. I found that out quickly, I was feeling pretty cocky once I started paddling around the cove like a pro however once we got a little bit out into the more open water and the tiniest waves appeared, i found myself a lot more conscious about trying to keep my balance. But then that’s where it becomes a bit more of a workout, which for a lot of people is part of the appeal.

When you first get on the board you’ll find balancing to be pretty simple. Getting some speed definitely helps and allows you to use the oar as part of your balancing trick. Turning adds a bit more of a challenge, but not significantly. For those looking for more of a challenge you can position your feet one in front and one in back which makes balancing more difficult but gives you more of a core workout and allows you some more impressive turning options.

Stand-up paddling is a great way to spend a few hours. It’s very relaxing and as easy or challenging as you choose to make it. We got some great sun and Faye even got to see a baby seal with mother. Both of us took a couple dunks in the water due to losing our balance, but on a sunny day like that was it felt so refreshing. If you get an opportunity, definitely give Stand-Up Paddling a try!