SUP surfing is a relatively young water sport and an exciting hobby that allows you to combine several water activities, from boat trips to fishing and yoga.
This water sport is often called paddle boarding or paddle surfing since the abbreviation SUP means “standing on a board with a paddle.” SUP surfing originated in Hawaii around the end of the 18th century.
At least, it was during this period that European sailors often began to meet the inhabitants of the Hawaiian Islands, cutting through the waves on wooden boards and at the same time cleverly controlling an oar, standing on such a simple water “transport.”
The same SUP-surfing as a water sport originated only at the beginning of the 21st century. Therefore it is considered one of the youngest directions.
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About SUP surfing
Surfer Rick Thomas laid the foundation for the new water sport, offering such a pastime in the absence of waves suitable for classic surfing. Starting in 2003, Hawaii began to hold competitions in this water sport, and in 2012 it was already known in all corners of the world.
One of the most famous and most difficult SUP board races, the Ironman, is held in Bora Bora. In Russia, SUP-surfing is most prevalent in St.
Petersburg and its environs, and it is here that various competitions in this type of water sport are most often held. The Baltic Cup held annually in June is especially popular.
Due to its versatility, SUP-surfing very quickly found numerous supporters worldwide and, despite its short history, is already one of the most popular water activities.
This paddle surfing is ideal for those who wish to explore the surroundings in a relaxed, leisurely way and seek more active pastime.
Moreover, this is universal water entertainment, not only for every taste but also for every opportunity, because everyone can surf with a paddle: from small children to older adults.
The main advantage of SUP surfing is its accessibility. In addition, it does not require any additional equipment. All you need is a SUP board and a paddle. There are two options for SUP-surfboards: inflatable and rigid.
The first type is more successful for transportation, and in terms of strength, it is often almost as strong as wooden boards. The only significant drawback of inflatable boards is low speed.
Rigid paddle boards allow for extraordinary speed. At the same time, a wide board is the best option for beginners.
Swimming features
It is distinguished by good stability, but at the same time, it does not provide an opportunity to develop a high speed of movement. That is why professionals choose narrow boards. It is best to select a paddle for such water entertainment easily adjustable in length.
Another equally important advantage of this water sport is the ease of training. To practice SUP-surfing, it is enough to stand on the board, learn to keep balance, and you can safely conquer any expanses of water.
The minimum requirement for beginners is to be able to swim. To maintain balance while standing, you will have to practice for some time, but you can initially start learning surfing while sitting or resting on your knees.
In addition, SUP can also be the first step towards windsurfing.
Another feature of this water sport is maximum safety and the minimum likelihood of injury during such an activity. There is a “leash” at the rear of the board, which partially protects the water for beginners.
For example, if a surfer falls into the water, the lacing that holds his foot will prevent the board from being carried out of reach by the wave.
Therefore, SUP-surfing can be practiced regardless of age, and it is not surprising that this water entertainment is top-rated among teenagers.
Another nice bonus from SUP-surfing is the ability to keep yourself in good shape without visiting gyms.
Advantages
This water sport allows you to perfectly train the muscles of the whole body in the fresh air because you have to row with an oar and, at the same time, maintain balance on the board.
For women who want to lose weight without exhausting diets, SUP-surfing is also an excellent option for water entertainment – not only pleasant but also healthy.
Plus, SUP surfing is a great way to relax. Often paddle boarding practitioners practice meditation and yoga, sitting on a board in the middle of a body of water, giving a sense of unity with nature. In addition, SUP boards are becoming more and more popular as a starting point for fishing.
Suppose special conditions are required for classic wave surfing. In that case, SUP-surfing can be practiced practically everywhere where there are at least some bodies of water, and this is its significant advantage over many other water sports where particular wave or wind conditions are required for practice. But for beginners, it is still best to start mastering this water sport on the lake’s smooth surface or the calm sea.
