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Paddleboarding: Not Just An Outdoor Sport

11 February 2015

Jacey Martin

The sport of paddleboarding has become increasingly popular over the last few years. Originating from Hawaii, this leisurely water sport involves a person standing up on what appears to be a surfboard, using paddles to propel them through the water. You may have seen people paddleboarding at your local lake or beach, but the sport has taken off so much that it's now also being offered as an indoor sport.

Benefits of Paddleboarding

The sport of paddleboarding is unique because unlike surfing, participants usually ride their boards on still water, gliding along the surface at a leisurely pace. But it does require some balance and skill. There are many health benefits to paddleboarding because it helps to strengthen and work the core muscles, arms, and legs. It is also an excellent way to help improve overall balancing. It is also a helpful supplement for people who already enjoy sports like yoga or pilates, as it adds some variety to the routine while still focusing on the same principles of working the smaller muscle groups. Performing the sport indoors means people can enjoy participating all year long, regardless of weather conditions.

Where to Paddleboard Indoors

Because paddleboarding is growing in popularity, you may be able to find a class at your local indoor pool, community center, yoga studio, or recreation center. Certified instructors will help teach you how to properly balance, use the paddles, and remain stable while you ride. You can even practice on a paddleboard that remains stationary on the floor until you get the hang of it. Once you try it on the water, you can fall safely without injury since the water is there to essentially "break" your fall.

Techniques

Most paddleboarding fans begin learning how to balance on the board by practicing while on their knees. You can begin this way, simply trying to stand up and kneel down repeatedly until you feel comfortable completely standing the whole time. It is best to try this out on solid ground a few times, since the water will make the board move. Once you've become accustomed to standing on the board securely, it's time to use the paddles. Gentle paddling will propel you forward, and you will remain focused on standing up straight, remaining firmly under the board as it moves ahead. Over time, you'll notice your stance improving and muscles getting stronger. It's no wonder that paddleboarding has become the next big thing, whether it's at the lake or your local YMCA.

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