Step up your workout game: Paddleboarding for fitness

Are you tired of your regular workout routine? Switch things up by trying out paddleboarding – an exciting and effective way of staying fit while enjoying the water. With its mix of balance, strength, and endurance, it’s no surprise that paddleboarding has become one of the trendiest ways to break a sweat in recent times.

What is paddleboarding?

Paddleboarding is a water sport where you stand on a large surfboard and propel yourself forward using a single-bladed paddle. It’s a low-impact, full-body workout that strengthens your upper body, core, and legs. Not to mention, it’s also calming and meditative, making it a perfect way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

The fitness benefits of paddleboarding

Full-body workout

Paddleboarding engages almost every muscle in your body since you must maintain balance while paddling. By standing on the board, you work your leg muscles – quads, glutes, calves, and hamstrings. The paddling motion strengthens your arms, chest, and back. It also works your core, as you stabilize your body using your abs and oblique muscles.

Low-impact sport

Paddleboarding is gentle on your joints, making it a suitable activity for people seeking low-impact exercises. If you have knee, hip, or ankle problems, paddleboarding can help you stay active without straining your joints.

Burns calories

Paddleboarding is a cardio-intensive activity, such that you burn a considerable amount of calories while doing it. The exact calorie count depends on various factors such as your weight, age, and current fitness level. However, It’s said that an average person can burn 300-400 calories in an hour of paddleboarding!

The safety precautions before you begin

Like with any water sport, safety is a top priority. To avoid accidents, here are a few precautions to keep in mind before heading out for your paddleboarding session:

Wear a wetsuit, vest, or PFD

Always wear a life jacket or personal floatation device while paddleboarding. They will keep you afloat in case you fall into the water. Additionally, depending on the temperature of the water, putting on a wetsuit or vest will prevent you from hypothermia.

Check your equipment

Ensure that your paddleboard and paddle are of the correct size and in good condition. The fin underneath the board should be firmly attached, and there shouldn’t be any cracks or dings on the board’s surface.

Check the weather conditions

Check the weather forecast and wind conditions before heading out. Choose calm, flat water, and avoid going when there are high tides or windy weather conditions.

Conclusion

Paddleboarding is a unique and fun way to work out outdoors. With its full-body movements, low-impact benefits and calorie-burning capabilities it’s suitable for anyone looking to switch up their workout routine. Before jumping on the board, always make sure you have the right safety gear and check the weather.Warning Although, You may fall in the water sometimes which could be dangerous as well, try performing paddleboarding under the guidance of a professional or a certified paddle yoga trainer in case, if you are doing it for the first time.