PADDLERsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 01 - Paddling Basics:
SUP BOARD BASICS: ABOUT SUP BOARDS
Originating from Hawaii in the 1960’s, SUP boarding, combines the physical demand of surfing with the calm quietude of canoeing. Traditionally, SUP boarding was a technique used by big wave surf instructors who needed to stand on their longboards to keep an eye on their surf students. These days, SUP boarding is the sport of choice on inland lakes as well as big wave venues!
SUP boarding has changed the paddler’s perspective in an amazing way–you can view the water beneath your feet at an angle that eliminates glare—atop a SUP board you have a 360° observation deck! The upright position provides a full body workout, the width of the board makes balancing easier than you may think and the view from the ‘captain’s stance’ goes without comparison. No wonder SUP has become a favorite paddle sport!
