Expert Advice

Expert Advice
  • Jun 6, 2023

Nutritional Strategies for Elevating Your Paddle Board Performance

Key Highlights The Energy Dynamics of Paddle Boarding: Understand the caloric demands based on activity intensity and type. Pre-Paddle Boarding Nutrition: Importance of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Hydration: Strategies for maintaining optimal hydration before, during, and after paddleboarding. Mid-Session Nutrition: Choosing the right snacks for energy and electrolyte balance. Post-Paddle Board Nutrition: Focusing on protein for muscle recovery and antioxidants for reducing oxidative stress. Customizing Your Nutrition Strategy: Tailoring your nutritional intake based on personal needs and consulting professionals for optimal performance.

  • Jun 1, 2023

Underneath the Surface: A Deep Dive into Paddleboard Construction Techniques

Paddleboarding's journey from a leisurely pastime to a global sporting phenomenon is as fascinating as it is diverse. With roots stretching back to the traditional wooden boards of yore, today's paddleboards—be they solid or inflatable—embody a blend of innovation, design, and a deep understanding of paddler needs. Let's embark on a journey beneath the surface of stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), exploring the craftsmanship that powers your paddleboarding adventures.

  • May 23, 2023

Training for the Long Haul: Endurance Training on Stand Up Paddle Boards

What is Endurance Training on SUPs? Endurance training on Stand Up Paddle Boards (SUPs) involves engaging in extended periods of paddle boarding to improve one's stamina, balance, strength, and overall physical performance. This training method leverages the sport's inherent whole-body engagement and adaptability to a variety of environments, enhancing not only the participant's endurance but also their mental resilience. Key Highlights Understanding Endurance Training on SUPs: Engage in prolonged paddle boarding sessions to boost stamina, balance, and physical performance, embracing the sport's full-body workout potential. Choosing the Right Paddle Board: Decide between inflatable and solid paddle boards based on personal preference, training location, and logistical needs. Highlight the growing popularity of inflatable boards for their convenience and versatility. Paddle Board Dimensions Matter: Select boards with optimal length, width, and thickness for stability and speed, crucial for enduring training sessions. Endurance Training Techniques: Gradually increase paddling duration and distance, incorporate interval training, and focus on developing core strength for improved stamina. Safety and Preparation: Emphasize the importance of wearing life jackets, using leashes, and understanding weather and water conditions for a safe training experience. Additional Training Tips: Explore cross-training opportunities like SUP yoga and paddle boarding with dogs to enhance physical and mental endurance. Mental Strength in Endurance Training: Develop mental resilience by engaging with the therapeutic aspects of paddling and focusing on the rhythmic movements and sounds of water. Recovery and Nutrition: Underline the significance of proper recovery and nutrition to support muscle repair and growth essential for endurance training.

  • May 23, 2023

Eco Adventures on a Paddle Board: Revolutionizing Research and Conservation

Stand up paddle boarding give a unique perspective for analyzing our environment.

  • May 19, 2023

Behind the Scenes: The Intricate Manufacturing Process of a Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand up paddle boarding, a fusion of adventure and fitness, has sailed to the forefront of water sports. At the heart of this exhilarating activity is the SUP board, a marvel of modern craftsmanship. This guide offers an exclusive peek into the complex process of creating stand up paddle boards, highlighting the dedication to quality that marks the journey from raw materials to the water-ready marvels under your feet.

  • May 18, 2023

Beginner's Guide to Birdwatching While Paddleboarding

Birdwatching is a fascinating and rewarding hobby that allows enthusiasts to connect with nature while observing and appreciating the beauty of birds. Combining birdwatching with paddleboarding, a popular water sport, adds a unique and exciting element to the experience. In this beginner's guide, we will delve into the world of birdwatching while paddleboarding and provide you with expert advice on how to get started, the essential gear you'll need, and tips to enhance your birdwatching experience. Key Highlights Introduction to the Fusion of Paddleboarding and Birdwatching: An overview of how combining these activities offers a unique perspective on nature and wildlife. Getting Started: Tips on basic birdwatching and paddleboarding techniques for beginners, emphasizing the importance of choosing calm, bird-rich waters for your first outing. Essential Gear: Recommendations for selecting a stable paddleboard, durable binoculars with suitable specifications, and appropriate clothing for various weather conditions. Safety Precautions: Guidelines on water safety, including the importance of checking weather conditions, wearing a PFD, and understanding local tides and currents. Identifying Birds and Their Habitats: Insights into common bird species found near water bodies, with tips on recognizing bird behaviors and vocalizations. Observing and Interacting with Birds: Advice on approaching birds without causing disturbance and adopting ethical birdwatching practices. Recording and Documenting Observations: Techniques for note-taking, photography tips, and using online tools and apps like eBird to record sightings. Joining Birdwatching Communities: The benefits of connecting with local birdwatching groups and participating in citizen science projects. Birdwatching Etiquette and Conservation: Emphasizing the importance of respecting bird habitats and practicing responsible birdwatching. List of Starter Locations: A curated list of ideal paddleboarding and birdwatching locations in each state, ensuring a comprehensive USA-wide guide

  • May 11, 2023

Making Waves in Style: The Latest in SUP Fashion for the Trendsetting Paddler

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is not just a sport; it's a statement. Beyond the thrill and the splash, it's a way to express your unique style and personality on the water. From sleek swimwear to the latest in paddle board innovation, the SUP fashion scene is as dynamic as the sport itself. Let's embark on a stylish journey through the essentials of paddle board fashion.

  • May 10, 2023

The Role of Weather and Tides in Paddle Boarding: A Comprehensive Guide

Paddle boarding is a popular water sport that continues to grow in popularity due to its accessibility and versatility 1. However, it's essential to understand how weather and tides can impact your experience on a stand up paddle board. In this comprehensive guide, we'll discuss the role of weather and tides in paddling paddles boards and how to navigate these conditions to have a safe and enjoyable time on the water. Key Highlights Impact of Wind on Paddle Boarding: Wind direction and strength significantly affect your paddling experience. Beginners should seek calm conditions, while experienced paddlers can handle moderate winds. Hard boards perform better in wind due to their lower profile. Temperature Considerations: Dress appropriately for air and water temperatures to ensure comfort and safety. A wetsuit or drysuit may be necessary in colder conditions. Effects of Precipitation: Rain can reduce visibility and make conditions more challenging. Light rain is manageable, but always consider the potential for hypothermia in colder weather. Understanding Tidal Movement: Tides influence water levels, currents, and access to certain areas. Familiarize yourself with local tide patterns to plan your route effectively. Navigating Tidal Areas: Be mindful of strong currents, shifting sandbars, and underwater obstacles. Wear a PFD and use a leash for safety. Tips for Different Conditions: Adjust your paddle technique in windy conditions, dress properly for cold weather, protect yourself from the sun in warm weather, and understand how to safely navigate tidal currents. Essential Safety Equipment: Always wear a PFD, use a leash to stay connected to your board, and carry emergency equipment like a whistle and flashlight.

  • May 9, 2023

Paddle Boarding for Seniors: Enjoying SUP at Any Age

Paddle boarding, or SUP, stands as a beacon of adventure for seniors seeking a blend of excitement and wellness. This guide sails you through the why and how of embracing SUP, offering a full-body workout that’s as gentle on the joints as it is invigorating for the spirit. Key Highlights Low-Impact Exercise: Paddle boarding offers seniors a gentle yet effective full-body workout, enhancing core strength, balance, and flexibility without stressing the joints. Mental Health Benefits: The serene experience of gliding on water can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting overall well-being. Choosing the Right Equipment: Opt for lightweight, stable inflatable paddle boards and properly sized paddles for comfort and ease of use. Paddle Boarding Tips: Start in calm waters, use a proper paddle technique focusing on core strength, and maintain a stable stance for balance and control. Safety Considerations: Always wear a PFD, use a leash to stay connected to your board, paddle with a buddy, and know your physical limits to ensure a safe experience. SUP Activities for Seniors: Explore SUP yoga for balance and relaxation or embark on SUP touring adventures to enjoy nature and leisurely paddles.

  • May 9, 2023

Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Water Safety: Understanding the Importance of Lifeguarding and First Aid Skills

Key Highlights Essential Role of Lifeguarding: Lifeguards play a vital role in supervising water activities, enforcing safety rules, and educating participants on potential hazards, ensuring a safe environment for paddle boarders. Importance of First Aid Knowledge: Paddle boarders equipped with first aid skills can effectively handle minor injuries and recognize signs of more serious conditions, contributing to overall safety on the water. Selecting the Right Gear: Choosing appropriate SUP boards and gear, including PFDs and leashes, tailored to one’s skill level and conditions, is fundamental for a safe paddle boarding experience. Developing Paddling Skills: Acquiring proper paddling techniques and understanding local water conditions enhance safety and enjoyment, making it crucial for paddlers to invest in learning and practice. Knowing Your Limits: Recognizing and respecting personal skill levels and comfort zones prevents accidents, emphasizing the importance of paddling within one’s abilities. Adaptive SUP for All Abilities: Adaptive techniques and equipment ensure that SUP is accessible and enjoyable for individuals with disabilities, showcasing the sport's inclusivity. Lifeguard Presence in SUP Events: Lifeguards ensure participant safety in competitions and events through vigilant supervision, emergency response coordination, and assistance in distress situations.

  • May 8, 2023

The Art of Stand up Paddle Board Photography: Capturing Stunning Images on the Water

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) merges the thrill of exploration with the art of photography, offering a unique canvas for capturing mesmerizing images. This guide is your compass to navigating the waves of SUP photography, brimming with tips to enhance your shots and make each paddle boarding journey unforgettable. Equipment Essentials for SUP Photography: Opt for stable paddle boards, waterproof cameras or housings, and lightweight paddles. Consider action cameras for ease and a waterproof smartphone case for convenience. Balancing and Shooting Techniques: Achieve stability and sharp images by mastering balance on your board. Experiment with various angles and perspectives for dynamic shots. Action and Environment Photography: Capture the thrill with fast shutter speeds for action shots. For SUP yoga, focus on serenity and connection, while surf photography demands timing and anticipation. Scenic SUP Photography Tips: Highlight the beauty of scenic locations by using leading lines and experimenting with compositions to showcase the paddle boarder's interaction with the environment. Gear Safety and Photographer Tips: Secure your equipment on the board and use flotation devices for cameras. Prioritize wearing a PFD, tether yourself with a leash, and stay aware of weather and currents. Post-Processing Enhancements: Adjust exposure, colors, and crop or straighten your images for the perfect finish, ensuring your photos reflect the vibrant reality of the SUP experience.

  • May 5, 2023

Master the Art of Paddle Board Longevity: A SUP Survivor's Guide

Stand up paddle boarding isn't just a sport—it's a lifestyle. Ensuring your paddleboard remains your trusty companion through countless adventures means giving it the TLC it deserves. This all-encompassing guide will take you through the nuts and bolts of SUP board upkeep, from strategic storage to meticulous maintenance. Key Highlights Proper Storage: Protect your paddleboard from the sun and moisture by storing it in a cool, dry place, away from UV rays, using a UV-protective cover, and ensuring it's dry before stowing. Regular Cleaning: Rinse your board after each use to remove salt and sand, and perform occasional deep cleans with mild soap and water to maintain its appearance and performance. Inspecting and Repairing Damage: Regularly check for dings, scratches, or cracks and address them promptly with a SUP repair kit to avoid bigger issues later. Seasonal Maintenance: Tighten hardware, inspect for wear, and refresh worn-out accessories like paddles and leashes to ensure your safety and the board's reliability. Protecting from Elements: Use a UV-resistant cover and store your

  • May 5, 2023

Paddleboard Camping 101: Everything You Need to Know for the Ultimate Adventure.

Paddleboard camping is an exhilarating way to combine your love for stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) with the joys of camping and exploring the great outdoors. Imagine paddling to a remote, secluded location and setting up camp for the night, surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan and execute the perfect paddleboard camping adventure, from selecting the right gear to finding the best spots and ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience. Key Highlights Choosing the Right Equipment: Essential gear includes a stable paddleboard like the Glide O2 Angler, lightweight paddle, PFD, dry bags, compact camping gear, quick-dry clothing, and navigation tools. Don't forget the Glide cooler for dual use as storage and a seat. Finding the Perfect Location: Opt for calm waters, accessible sites with scenic views, and ensure you're aware of any permits or regulations. Prioritize places with camping amenities for a comfortable stay. Planning Your Route: Determine your daily paddling distance based on your ability and the weather. Include points of interest and rest times in your itinerary. Always have a contingency plan. Paddleboarding and Camping Safety Tips: Always wear a PFD, check weather conditions, practice Leave No Trace ethics, be aware of surroundings, and ensure your inflatable SUP has a repair kit. Inform someone of your plans. Making the Most of Your Experience: Capture your adventure with waterproof cameras, enjoy the solitude, explore hiking trails, and share your experiences to inspire others.

  • May 5, 2023

Cross-Training for Paddle Board Season: Complementary Sports and Exercises to Improve SUP Performance

As the paddle boarding season approaches, enthusiasts seek ways to elevate their on-water prowess. Cross-training offers a dynamic approach to enhancing SUP skills, focusing on overall fitness, balance, and strength. This comprehensive guide delves into the benefits and strategies of cross-training for paddle boarders. Key Highlights The Importance of Cross-Training for SUP: Highlights how cross-training complements stand-up paddle boarding by improving strength, balance, and endurance, and addressing muscle imbalances. Complementary Sports: Lists sports like swimming, surfing, yoga, kayaking, and canoeing as beneficial cross-training activities for SUP enthusiasts, emphasizing their contribution to cardiovascular health, balance, and muscle strength. Core Strengthening Exercises: Recommends exercises such as planks and Russian twists to build core strength, vital for maintaining stability on a paddle board. Lower Body Workouts: Suggests squats, lunges, and calf raises for enhancing lower body strength, crucial for stability and control on the water. Upper Body and Shoulder Strengthening: Details exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and shoulder presses to strengthen shoulders and arms for effective paddling. Balance and Stability Training: Offers tips on improving balance through single-leg exercises, Bosu ball, and balance board workouts, enhancing overall SUP performance. Setting Realistic Cross-Training Goals: Advises on the importance of setting achievable goals and incorporating variety to prevent overtraining and promote long-term fitness. The Role of Rest and Recovery: Stresses the need for rest days and active recovery activities, such as yoga and stretching, to prevent injuries and promote muscle repair. Tracking Progress: Encourages monitoring workouts and progress to stay motivated and adjust training routines as needed.

  • May 3, 2023

"Float Your Yoga: A Beginner’s Guide to Stand-Up Paddle Board Yoga

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has taken the world by storm in recent years, with people of all ages and fitness levels enjoying the sport. As a result, SUP has evolved into various disciplines, including the increasingly popular SUP Yoga. Combining the serenity of yoga with the challenge of balancing on a paddleboard, SUP Yoga offers numerous benefits, such as improved balance, strength, and relaxation. In this ultimate guide, we'll dive into the world of SUP Yoga, covering everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right equipment to mastering essential poses.

  • May 3, 2023

Stand Up Paddle Boarding Adventures, Tips, Tricks and Links

Use this article as a resource to easily find the many articles that we have written on stand up paddle boarding.