in Bend, Oregon. He suggests that its Hawaiian roots imbue stand up pad- dling with a spirit of aloha, humility and respect.
At the same time, “It’s one of the few sports that allows people to maintain a conversation,” says Dan Gavere, co-creator of SUPInstruction. com. Having discovered SUP in the paddling mecca of Oregon’s Columbia Gorge, he considers it an ideal family recreational sport. In any case, the activity remains mentally engaging because the stand- ing position allows views in every direction, including into the water. “It’s like walking on water. You really get to see what’s around you,” observes Shelly Strazis, a 43-year-old Long Beach resi- dent who began paddling after having multiple accident-related surgeries on her left knee and right shoulder. “It’s such a relaxing workout. I used to mountain bike, but I can’t do that with the kids,” explains Francine Adams, the mother of 5-year-old twins. “I’m afraid of waves and some ocean creatures, but these boards are so stable that it doesn’t matter.”
After her first SUP outing with a moms’ group, this Orlando, Florida, resident introduced her husband to the sport. Within three months, the couple had purchased their own equipment. They now paddle together with one of their twins on each of their boards. Adams adds, “As part of our vaca- tion planning now, we scout locations where we can bring our boards.” Most likely, the Adams family will
be able to enjoy their boards almost anywhere in the country. SUP groups in locations as unlikely as Idaho and New Mexico can be found on Meetup. com. “No body of water is off limits for stand up paddling,” says Gavere, citing its biggest growth trends in the Rocky Mountains, where kayakers and white- water rafters are using inflatable boards on rivers and lakes; the Great Lakes, where people do yoga on boards on flat water; and Texas, where some folks fish from their boards or ride small Gulf of Mexico waves.
SUP enthusiast Lauressa Nelson is a con- tributing editor for Natural Awakenings and a freelance writer in Orlando, FL.
July 2011 41
The length, width and thickness of paddle boards determine their degree of maneuverability and gliding characteristics. At about 30 inches wide and four to five inches thick, beginner boards for use in flat water average 10’6’’ long and 25 pounds for females, 11’5” long and 28 pounds for males. Paddles are
typically six to 10 inches taller than the paddler.
Local Source Notes:
“I’ve been surfing in South Florida for more than 25 years and needed something to fill the gap when there are no waves, which happens a lot. We fell in love with stand up paddle boarding (SUP) about 4 years ago, after trying it in SoCal while visiting during the summer. We came back and immediately got
boards for the shop. It took about a year and it really started to take off. Before I owned Surf World, I manufactured surf- boards so I have a great deal of knowl- edge in board design and manufacturing techniques, which translates into a better buying experience for the consumer. For most people, paddle boards are not inexpensive, spur of the mo- ment purchases. We help our customers make a more informed decision when purchasing a new board and provide insight that most shops simply cannot. Surf World stocks more stand up paddle boards than anyone in South Florida and our staff knows how to stand up paddle. Our love for the sport shows in our dedi- cation - you can find us paddling on our days off. We run races, do lessons and organize full moon paddles. Most every- one in South Florida knows when you’re looking for a SUP you have to check out Surf World.” – Randy Skinner, Surf World, 435 S Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, 954.545.7873.
“Stand up paddle boarding is fun
for the whole family, one of our favor- ite outdoor activities; no experience required. The length and width of the board make it easy for anyone to try and learn. It’s a great way to enjoy nature at its best, the fresh air and the beauty of the water together in one activity.” –Amber Weaver, American Watersports, 615 N Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach, www.
americanwatersports.net. or call 954.946.1811.
Another local source: Gold Coast
Aquatic Adventures, 3100 NE 9th St, Ft Lauderdale FL 33304. 954.366.7504.
Courtesy of Nicole Ware
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