What's SUP?

I have been wanting to try Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP) since last summer. I was vacationing with my family in beautiful Harbor Springs, Michigan when I first saw the brave paddle boarders venture out on the bay. I had always admired the girls in the Athleta catalog for their strength and ability. Part of me wondered if I could manage that skill. My curiosity was fueled this past week while on vacation. 

I watched people paddle board on Lake Michigan and decided to give it a try. My awesome hubby rented two paddle boards and a kayak for the day. Yeah! My chance of checking another item off my fitness bucket list was in reach. 

My first impressions of my new toy for the day was that the board was massive! 11' 4' long and heavy. Second factor I should mention is that the lake temperature was a balmy 56 degrees! So the fear of falling into the frigid water was definitely on my mind! I started on my knees and made my way through the mass of brave swimmers in the cold water. My knees were gradually loosing feeling from the cold, and I was bound and determined not to fall off my board. 

Once I gained enough will power to stand up on my board, I did so with the grace of a football player doing ballet. I gingerly stood up and prayed that I wouldn't fall into the frigid water and shock my heart! And not to mention never hearing the end of the harassing that would certainly be thrown my way by many members of my family spurred on my determination.

I finally got my lake legs and I started to relax and really felt the board respond to the waves. In turn, my body learned how to respond to the changes in the elements and I loved it! I found myself taking in the full experience of the lake, bluffs, and friendly people cheering me on. It was amazing! And by the way, yes, Lake Michigan has waves! 

I ended up paddling for over an hour. It was challenging, yet peaceful. I loved it so much that we rented another board the next day. I even got brave enough to try it with my youngest daughter sitting on the front of the board. It's something that I will never forget. 

I was thrilled to learn that one can burn up to 700 calories an hour depending on your size, conditions, and effort. Paddle boarding engages all your muscles. It is a total body workout! Here's an article by Sam Burrows that explains the many benefits of SUP. http://www.isupworld.com/health-benefits-of-stand-up-paddle-boarding/

I was proud of my family for learning a new skill on vacation. I love that we shared this together and stayed active while on vacation. 

Have you ever tried paddle boarding? I would love to hear your story. What's on your fitness bucket list? I'm happy to report that I never fell in the lake! 

Stay active & find something new to add to your fitness bucket list. Next on my list: paddle board in Mexico or Hawaii. 

-Emily 

Pentwater, MI