The zen of stand-up paddle boarding
Every time I’ve watched stand-up paddle boarders, I’ve thought that it can’t be that hard and I’ve wondered what the appeal was. It doesn’t seem as difficult as surfing or as exhilarating as snowboarding, yet it’s become more and more popular on my favorite beaches in Maui, Orange County and St Kilda.
I finally decided to give it a try with SUP St Kilda on a strangely windy day in St Kilda. The wind meant that we stayed close to the pier instead of paddling out into the bay, but an hour-long lesson was still enough to show off the sport’s appeal.
What I loved most about stand-up paddle boarding was the singular focus it requires. You simply have to block out everything else and concentrate on your balance and your rhythm: it’s a freeing experience to let go of that day’s personal doubts and dramas. I realized that I was using the breathing techniques I used to employ on long-distance runs (in a former life where I actually did things like that) and repeating the personal mantra that has stuck with me since my first sunrise yoga class.
The “workout” aspect of stand-up paddle boarding seemed almost secondary, but my arms were certainly sorer the next day. It requires a good sense of balance and a strong core, but it’s not incredibly athletic or challenging. In that way, it seems similar to running: technically, everyone can do it. It’s just whether or not you have the motivation to stick with it long enough to see the benefits.
It doesn’t hurt that being surrounded by such a gorgeous natural setting. SUP has locations in St Kilda Beach, the Yarra River and Sorrento Beach. I’m incredibly lucky to live just a few steps from St Kilda Beach, zig-zagging my way through the tourists on my run to the gym and ducking out of wedding and engagement photos as I walk to meet friends for a drink: it is a beautiful place to try out stand-up paddle boarding (much more so than the brown hues of the Yarra, methinks).
The SUP St Kilda experience was awesome, informative and very laid-back. The instructor does a quite thorough job on prepping you on what to expect, how to get up and how to paddle while still on the sand. Once you head out into the water, they’re on hand to help if you have any questions, but mostly just let you head out and enjoy.
Note: SUP St Kilda graciously offered me a discounted rate, but all opinions are my own.
