If you’re looking for an awesome date idea to take your loved one on consider standup paddle boarding. Paddle boarding can make the perfect Valentines Day date and here’s why.

Sadly, in today’s rushed society, you can’t go anywhere and not see a cell phone or tablet in a child’s hand…and it’s not just kids; adults are guilty of this as well. Truth of the matter is—most kids would rather stay indoors and interact on social media than go outside. Enter stand up paddle boarding (SUP) and we may have a solution!

Inflatable paddle boards (iSUPs) are a popular choice for many paddlers, but is it worth getting an inflatable paddle board? When you're getting into SUP, you'll have to decide what type to buy. So, here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether an iSUP is the right choice for you.

Some odd pairs make more sense than you might anticipate—SUP golf is one of them. This new and innovative water sport combines a popular golf side game and stand-up paddleboarding for an afternoon of friendly competition by the dock.

Seasoned yoga and paddle board professional Jodelle Fitzwater dishes on her perspective of the question if doing SUP Yoga is better than yoga on land. Read her take here.

Stand Up Paddle (SUP) is considered such a safe sport that it is commonly recommended for children adults alike. However, if you want to reduce your risk of injury while you are out at sea, or if you take part in competitive events, ensure that sleep is an important priority in your daily life.

A huge part of paddle boarding is all about balance. It takes many hours of practice in order to refine your skills. SUP racers take even more time in order to be able to both balance themselves in the water and be able to race with precision. One of the best ways to gain these skills is by practicing SUP yoga.

Did you know that sunglasses are also a vital accessory to have while paddle boarding? Here are a few key reasons why you need a reliable pair of sunnies to enjoy the sport properly.

We paddle for lots of reasons, we keep fit through training programs, we improve our mental health through escapism and most of all we just have fun! As a fellow paddler and SUP business owner, David Walker of the Paddle Logger App advocates taking your phones out on the water - here's why.

Simplicity is one of the attractive features of standup paddle boarding. When you feel that first glide and realize “Hey, I can do this,” it’s easy to believe that all you need is a board and a paddle, but when you’re standing alone on a platform floating two inches above the water, a few more things are required, because a paddling excursion on any water body can quickly turn into an in-water experience.

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is more than just a sport; it’s a journey of discovery, connection, and growth. My adventure with SUP began around ten years ago, thanks to a suggestion from a work colleague. We decided to give it a try and soon found ourselves paddling out on the water every Wednesday after work with the local SUP club. This simple suggestion turned into a transformative experience that continues to shape my life in unexpected ways.

Photo By Fabian Torrilla (@fabian.torrilla_horizonseeker)

I have never been a sporty person. Sports and physical activities were never a significant part of my life, and I certainly didn’t see myself as someone who would take up a sport, any sport. But from the first moment I stepped onto a paddleboard, I was surprised at how quickly I could pick it up. SUP’s accessibility is one of its most appealing aspects. It doesn’t require a high level of fitness or special skills to get started, which made it perfect for someone like me.

Photo By Fabian Torrilla (@fabian.torrilla_horizonseeker)

Though I never considered myself a sporty person, SUP subtly integrated fitness into my life. Each paddle session works the core, arms, and legs, providing a full-body workout that doesn’t feel like exercise. Over time, I noticed improvements in my balance, strength, and endurance. But beyond the physical benefits, SUP has also been a boost for my mental well-being. The calming effect of being on the water, combined with the confidence boost from being part of a community, helps reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.

In our hyper-connected world, it's easy to become glued to our phones and technology. SUP provides a much-needed digital detox. Once I step onto the paddleboard, the distractions of emails, social media, and notifications fade away. The focus shifts entirely to the natural surroundings and the rhythm of paddling. This break from screens and constant connectivity helps me recharge mentally and find a deeper sense of presence and mindfulness.

Photo By Fabian Torrilla (@fabian.torrilla_horizonseeker)

Starting SUP was a step out of my comfort zone, fostering a journey of personal growth. Each paddle session brings a sense of accomplishment and boosts my confidence. This journey mirrors broader life lessons in resilience, patience, and perseverance, teaching me to embrace new challenges with a positive mindset. The SUP community is welcoming and supportive, creating a network of friends who share a love for the sport. This sense of belonging and the shared experiences on the water have enriched my social life and built lasting relationships.

Embracing SUP has opened up other doors in my life, doors I would never have thought possible. Motivated by the physical benefits and newfound confidence from paddling, I have learned that happiness can be found just beyond the comfort zone. I now regularly seek other activities outside of my comfort zone, whether physical or otherwise, like joining a gym, participating in SUP races, writing articles, or giving work presentations. All things I would have deemed impossible before SUP. The discipline and motivation I found through SUP have translated into a more active and healthier lifestyle overall.

Photo By Fabian Torrilla (@fabian.torrilla_horizonseeker)

Stand Up Paddling has become an integral part of my life, offering a unique blend of physical, mental, and social benefits. From the sport’s accessibility to the connections with nature and the community, SUP has transformed my perspective on sports and well-being. What does Stand Up Paddling mean to you? To me, it means embracing new experiences, trying things that make you feel uncomfortable, and ultimately finding yourself. It is a path to a richer, more fulfilling life, both on and off the water. So step out of your comfort zone and give SUP a shot!

Even if you’re a watersports enthusiast, standup paddle boarding is a whole new adventure and challenge! Here’s what makes it a great sport to try.