Is Paddle Boarding Easy?

Paddle boarding is a great way to get outdoors, enjoy the sun and water, and get a good workout all at the same time. It's a fabulous way to connect with family and friends or simply make time for yourself. But one question you may have is, is paddle boarding easy? Many people don't realize that you don't have to be a professional athlete or have the balance of a gymnast to learn how to paddle board successfully. In this blog post, we will discuss tips on getting started, including what board to rent, how to identify the right conditions, and the best location.

Getting started.

Paddle boarding is easy in the sense that almost anyone can give it a try and have some success with it. However, like anything else, there is a learning curve. But don't let that dissuade you from giving it a try because the learning curve is pretty short compared to many other sports and activities. Most people who have never been on a SUP but from A1A SUP often find themselves successfully standing and paddling within 20-40 minutes! And with 5-10 minutes of beachside instruction!

What is the best paddle board to rent?

The best board to rent is an inflatable paddle board. Inflatable stand up paddle boards (aka; SUPs) are great for several reasons. First, they are very stable, which makes them perfect for beginners. Second, they are easy to transport as they pack down to the size of a large suitcase, making them fun to take just about anywhere you want to go. Pro tip: If you rent a paddle board from A1A SUP, we'll delivery and pick up your inflatable SUP for free.

Picking the right conditions.

If you're just getting started with paddle boarding, it's important to know the best conditions for paddle boarding. Our recommendation at A1A SUP is to paddle board in calm, flat water with little or no wind. These conditions are often found early in the morning or later in the evening. Our preferred location in St. Augustine, Florida, is the Matanzas Inlet. We prefer the inlet because it is typically very calm with little to no wind and has beautiful scenery. The best part of the Matanzas Inlet is there are channels where the water is warm and calm. The channels also create opportunities to get up close and personal with dolphins and sea turtles!

How long does it take to stand up on a paddle board?

With light instruction, many paddle boarding beginners can stand up on a paddle board in as little as 25-30 minutes. What about those who feel they are less athletic? Well, many folks who self-identify as less athletic stand up on a paddle board in 30-45 minutes! Once again, this is easy when you paddle board in a protected, shallow water area with little or no current and waves, such as lagoons, bays, harbors, and inlets.

Paddle boarding is great exercise.

Paddle boarding is a great workout as it is low impact but works almost every muscle in your body. In fact, according to Harvard Medical School, it is "an excellent full-body workout that can improve muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility." It also a great way to burn calories. The average person burns between 400-900 calories per hour!

Paddle boarding is relaxing.

Paddle boarding (aka; SUP'ing is a great way to relax and recharge. According to studies, SUP'ing can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. One of the reasons SUP'ing is so relaxing is that it gets you outdoors in nature and away from technology. When you're out on the water, it's just you, your paddle board, and nature.

Paddle boarding with family and friends.

Have a family reunion coming up? Perhaps you're celebrating someone's birthday or anniversary. If so, SUP'ing is a great activity to do with family and friends. It's a great way to bond and have fun together. And, it's a great workout for all ages, so be sure to add paddle boarding to your vacation and weekend plans.

Now that you know a little more about SUP'ing and how easy it is, we hope you'll try it on your next vacation or weekend getaway. And if you're ever in St. Augustine, Florida, give us a ring at A1A SUP and rent an inflatable paddle board. We'll even let in on our favorite locations that are scenic, quiet, and one that only the locals know about.