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Stand Up Paddle Boarding
We went on a new adventure this past Saturday. My husband and I took a Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson. We had purchased a groupon type deal a while back for a 2 hour lesson for two.
The lesson was held in Marina del Rey in a quiet cove. We arrived to find several clusters of paddle boards spread out on the beach.
Once we found the right group and our instructor, we were joined by 6 other people and began our lesson. Basically, it’s pretty easy. Start kneeling and paddle. When you get comfortable, stand up and keep paddling. Simple huh?
And, it was pretty simple. And beautiful. We were in the marina for the whole lesson. Lot’s of beautiful scenery and huge boats.
There were tons of paddle boarders out. I loved the peaceful enjoyment of the surroundings. Kind of like running on a beautiful trail or a new location.
At the time we made the plans, I was convinced that I’d need a wetsuit, so we rented one at a local surf shop for the day. Turns out, by the end of the summer, the water is pretty warm. So, I wore the wetsuit just flopped down.
One thing I didn’t expect about stand up paddle boarding – your feet hurt! After 2 hours on the board, my feet were exhausted. And numb, kind of like being on an elliptical machine in the same position for an extended period of time. During our lesson, we had taken a break on some docks and I soaked my feet in the cool water to wake them up. Felt much better.
Verdict: I’d totally do this again! I’m not sure I’m ready for open surf, but in a marina with calm water, it was a really nice day. It was a very active outing – I felt like my body was engaged and working quietly hard the whole time. Two hours was a long time. An hour is probably enough.
We also realized that you can find many places to just rent a paddle board for a bit. MMT and I discussed many places around here that would be fun to explore by paddle board.
When we finished our lesson, my thighs were exhausted. It was hot and once we got some water and cooled off a bit, I was feeling better. For the rest of the day, my legs felt like they worked hard for the morning, but I was never really sore.
It was a really nice day. I can’t wait to do it again.
Have you ever gone stand up paddle boarding?
We lived in Hawaii for 2 years and used to SUP a lot. I didn’t love it at first, but it totally grew on me. Depending on the current, it can be tough! I don’t remember my feet hurting but I do remember falling off the board a few times and getting big ol bruises on my shins! ouch.
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Ouch! We were in really calm water and I didn’t fall off – I think I was gripping so hard with my feet and keeping them perfectly still that they just got worn out. SUP in Hawaii would be amazing!
That sounds so fun! I’ve never tried it- but what a great activity to do with your husband. Looks like you mastered it pretty quickly, too!
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Thank you. The first few moments of standing up were a little freaky. But, once I relaxed, it all got better.
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wowwww!!!! sooooo cool! and so brave to get out and try something new! this looks awesome, exciting, relaxing and just fun!
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Thanks Julia! It was fun.
I live off of Lake Michigan and there is a paddle board rental right on the beach…I drool over it every summer. It’s on my bucket list, for sure!
You must go! On a lake would be amazing.
That looks like so much fun and I would love try it…even with my poor balance I hadn’t thought about how it would affect the feet, though.
Some controversy here with them due to high boat/plane traffic in some of our harbors.
Glad you shared it… great pictures.
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We were told to be very considerate of the boats because it’s their water. I got the feeling that there’s a lot of controversy with that.
I am glad you enjoyed it. I went earlier this year and liked it. It’s very relaxing, although you do get exercise! My boyfriend had sore feet, but I didn’t notice as much…maybe because mine are all gnarly and calloused?
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Mine are pretty gnarly and calloused too. I just think I was gripping with them for so long and not letting the blood circulate. Glad you liked it too.
Awesome Carrie! My husband and I wanted to try this when we were on vacation. They were everywhere. Unfortunately the only day we could fit it in it stormed. Add it to my bucket list
Yes, it’s so peaceful and different than anything else I’ve done. You must do it!
SUP is definitely on my list of “must tries”. It’s super popular down here.
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It was really fun. I bet your kids would get into it, too.