In the past, stand up paddle boarding was mode of water transportation reserved for Polynesian warriors who had to island-hop into battle. They were skilled paddle boarders, and had the physiques to prove it. Now, stand up paddling boarding is an activity enjoyed by many people. It has major health benefits when utilized regularly. The first benefit is the development of a strong and balanced body. The second, is a mental and emotional benefit that cannot be fully understood without experiencing time on a stand up paddle board.
Every aspect of using a stand up paddle board develops a targeted part of the body. Even initial mounting of a paddle board requires muscles and coordination that aren’t targeted in daily living. With paddle boarding, there is no opponent but the water, no heavy weights, and no limited competition space. It’s a meeting between two great powers, the human body and the ocean.
Extraordinary strength and balance is required to get into the position to use a stand up paddle board. Once a paddle board is mounted, a strong leg position is needed to control the board, and prepare the paddler for motion. Using an elbowed paddle, the operator must direct the board using a series of strokes on either side of the board to cut paths in the water, or travel distances in a straight line. The physical exertion and power needed for these simple stand up paddle board skills equates to a great full-body workout and extraordinary health benefits.
First, a continual power position on the board requires core stability. Though stand up paddle boarding is considered a leisurely activity, abdominal and leg strength and stamina is needed to stand on a board for long periods. Next, the paddling motion will stress the muscles of the entire upper body, from shoulders to fingertips. Even stagnant water provides a great deal of resistance. In order to propel the board, the paddler must cut through volumes using every upper body muscle group to achieve propulsion. Finally, with long sessions of stand up paddle boarding, comes fatigue. As the muscles of the body work to keep the body stable and cover distances, oxygen will be used. A strong cardiovascular load is needed to navigate a paddle board at certain speeds, and for extended periods of time.
Stand up paddle boards require the use of large muscle groups for power, supporting muscle systems for balance, and cardiovascular endurance to fuel the time spent on the board. It is entirely possible to experience a full body, gym-quality workout navigating a stand up paddle board. Of course, there is a secondary benefit to paddle boarding that gym rats tend to never experience.
When riding on a stand up paddle board, the paddler has a unique view of the ocean from its surface. Unlike traditional sports training, this activity allows a person to intimately connect with the environment. On a paddle board, a person can witness the behavior of sea life up close. They can journey into spaces where boats, swimmers, and surfers can’t go. They have the opportunity to enjoy their chosen environment at their own pace and timing. This aspect of stand up paddle boarding is undeniably a measurable and lasting benefit for the mind and soul. A healthy and vibrant mind will help a body achieve a higher degree of health and fitness. Paddling boarding is one way to guarantee that the emotions and “self” will be stimulated thoroughly.
Like any other type of sport or exercise, stand up paddle boarding tends to give the participant benefits that reflect the effort spent. Stand up paddle boarding can be used to explore an environment in a relaxed way, or it can be a superb tool for stimulating and accelerating personal fitness.