Stand up paddleboarding, or SUP, is a water sport that has gained popularity in recent years. Not only is it a fun activity to do on the water, but it is also a great workout that can help sculpt your body and abs in no time.
Let’s take a closer look at how SUP can benefit your fitness goals.
What is SUP?
SUP involves standing on a board that is similar to a surfboard and paddling through water. It can be done in calm waters such as lakes and rivers, or in open water such as the ocean.
It is a low-impact workout that engages your entire body, especially your core muscles.
The Benefits of SUP on Your Body and Abs
SUP requires balance, stability, and strength which are all important for developing a toned and lean body. Here are some of the ways SUP can help work your body and abs:.
1. Builds Core Strength
Since SUP requires balance to stay upright on the board, your core muscles are constantly engaged. This helps to strengthen your core muscles which include your abs, obliques, and lower back muscles.
A strong core can help improve your posture, stabilize your spine, and prevent lower back pain.
2. Engages Upper Body Muscles
When you paddle on a SUP board, you engage your shoulders, back, and arms. This can help tone and strengthen these muscles, especially if you paddle for an extended period of time.
3. Low-Impact Cardio Workout
Paddling on a SUP board is a low-impact exercise that raises your heart rate and burns calories. It’s a great way to get a cardiovascular workout without putting strain on your joints. SUP can help improve your overall fitness level and endurance.
4. Targets Lower Body Muscles
When you paddle on a SUP board, you also engage your leg muscles including your quads, hamstrings, and calves. This can help tone your lower body muscles and improve your balance and stability.
5. Reduces Stress
SUP is not just a physical exercise, but also a mental one. Being out on the water and surrounded by nature can help reduce stress and provide a sense of relaxation. SUP can help improve your mental health and well-being along with your physical health.
How to Get Started with SUP
If you’re interested in trying SUP, here are some tips to get started:.
- Find a reputable SUP instructor or school in your area.
- Rent a board and paddle to try it out before investing in your own equipment.
- Start out in calm waters and shallow areas.
- Wear a lifejacket or flotation device.
- Take a lesson to learn proper technique and safety tips.
SUP Workouts for Your Body and Abs
Here are some SUP workouts you can do to target your body and abs:.
1. Paddle Sprints
Warm-up with a leisurely paddle and then do sprints for 30 seconds followed by a rest period for 30 seconds. Repeat for 10-15 minutes. This will help you burn calories and improve your cardiovascular fitness.
2. Plank on Water
Get in a plank position on the board and hold it for as long as you can. This will help build core strength and stability.
3. Yoga on Water
Take your yoga practice to the water by doing sun salutations, warrior poses, and other yoga moves on your SUP board. This will help improve your balance, flexibility, and core strength.
4. Paddle Board Race
Find a friend or group to race on SUP boards. This will help improve your upper body strength, cardiovascular endurance, and competitive spirit.
Conclusion
SUP is a fun and effective way to sculpt your body and abs while enjoying the outdoors. Its low-impact nature makes it a workout suitable for all fitness levels. Try out SUP and see how it can benefit your fitness and overall well-being.