Discover stand up paddle boarding (sup)

Stand-up paddle boapaddleboardingrding is an ancient Hawaiian sport that was revamped a few years ago and has since exploded in popularity as it's so easy to learn. Also called SUP or even paddle surfing, this new water sport can be mastered in just a few minutes on calm water and lets you cruise around at your own pace whether on the sea, a lake, or any other inland body of water.

The practice is divided into 3 categories :          
- touring with wide, stable boards          
- racing with longer, narrower boards for maximum speed          
- surfing with short, wide boards for better handling in the waves

There are 2 types of construction :          
- inflatable boards (perfect for beginners), which are very sturdy, inflate in a few minutes, fit in a big backpack and can be stored in the boot of a car    
- rigid (or hard) boards (geared towards advanced surfers or racers), which are more powerful, more fragile, and require a roof rack for transport

TostartSUP, you need a wide board for good stability (preferably inflatable as it's easier to transport), a paddle and flat water without any wind or current..

For safety, a cord (leash) connects the board to your leg. If you fall in, the board will never be far. For added safety, you can wear a buoyancy aid. If you take your child on the board with you, they must always wear a life jacket..

When you set off for the first time, start on your knees to get your balance on the board and then stand up with your knees bent for more stability. Start paddling on one side with the blade of the paddle open to the front. Then when the board begins to turn due to the row effect, paddle on the other side by changing hands with the paddle.

And that's it, now you know how to SUP!

The nice thing about up stand-up paddle boarding is that you're doing physical activity without even realising it. Paddling while standing on the board, even at a slow speed, is a good workout for the cardiovascular system but also for several muscle groups :
- your legs work to provide stability (proprioception),          
- your core transmits the paddling force to the board         
- your upper body (shoulders, arms, back) are used in the paddling motion.

If you are using an inflatable board, using the pump for a few minutes to reach the correct inflation pressure is also a good way to warm up before you start.

And all of this in the open air, enjoying the scenery and cruising on the water in the peace and quiet of nature!!

Everyone can SUP safely on flat water with no wind or current. Children can start by sitting at the front of their parent's board before standing up alone with the paddle adjusted to their size (arms stretched over the head, the handle should reach the wrist).

And the only risk then is becoming completely addicted to this sport, going out for longer and longer trips or trying to go faster by getting better at paddling, or even having fun surfing small waves.

If you paddle alone, wear a buoyancy aid (some come with a water bladder to easily stay hydrated), a waterproof pouch for your phone if necessary, and always check the weather before you get in the water. Headwinds, tide and current can seriously disrupt your trip.

For easy transport and storage, we recommend using an inflatable SUP board and a paddle that is both adjustable (for several people) and detachable (to fit in the inflatable SUP bag). Add a buoyancy aid for safety and a dry bag so that you can take your belongings on the water and you are ready for adventure!