Inflatable SUP Boards

PADDLE SURF

Paddle SURF, also called Paddle SUP, Stand up Paddle Surf, Stand up Paddle Surf, Paddle Surf, Stand Up Paddle or abbreviated SUP. It is a discipline that has been practiced since ancient Hawaii. In Hawaiian they call it "Ku Hoe He'e Nalu" and it means to stand up, paddle and surf on a wave.

We can understand it as a form of gliding over the water with a surfboard, using a paddle to move in an upright position. 

Of all water sports, it is the one that has been gaining more popularity in recent years, being easy to learn and accessible to almost everyone. Having declared themselves unconditional fans Rihanna, Jason Momoa, Ben Stiller, Shakira, Will Smith, Zac Efron, Bar Refaeli, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran and many more.

ORIGINS OF PADDLE SURFING

The first references to the practice of paddle surfing date back to ancient Egypt. On the other hand, there are investigations that also place it in Peru in Pre-Columbian times, where the natives called them "Caballitos de Totora". There are also theories that date its origin to the Polynesian peoples.

The modern origin is attributed to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, in 1960. Surf instructors began to use paddles to have greater visibility and thus better direct their groups. In this sense, John Zapotocky is known as the father of Paddle Surf.

WHY PRACTICE IT? 

Paddle Surf (SUP) is a sport accessible to the general public. It is easy to practice and you can start at any age and with any physical condition. Few sports allow you to adapt and evolve as fast as Paddle Surfing. There are even centers where people with reduced mobility can practice it

It is an ideal way to make a getaway, explore new landscapes, connect with nature and enjoy alone or with the best company.

You don't need wind or waves to practice it. In addition, the upright position on the board makes it possible to practice for hours in a comfortable position. It is an ideal way to enjoy the sea on calm days.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF PADDLE SURFING

In the practice of Paddle Surf works the muscles of our body to the fullest and gradually. As there is no severe impact on the muscle, it is not aggressive to the joints, so the risk of injury is very low. It is a sport where all the muscles are worked aerobically and without impact.

Other benefits of the practice of Paddle Surf:

- Toning and stimulation of the upper and lower body.

- Improved reflexes as it works the dynamic balance, thus avoiding accidental falls.

- It favors the recovery after having suffered an injury.

- High caloric consumption.

- Prevention of pain and joint, muscle and bone injuries.

- We increase aerobic capacity and muscular endurance.

- We work on body symmetry and muscle development, achieving a slimmer body.

- We improve our attitude towards everyday life.

TYPES OF PADDLE SURF BOARDS

Within the Paddle Surf, we find a wide range of modalities for its practice: Walking, Yoga, Surfing, Racing, Fishing .... For this reason, different designs of boards have been created according to their use and the dimensions of the surfer. We can also find rigid or inflatable. Depending on the length, the width of the board, the height and its shape, we will find boards for each of the modalities and users of paddle surfing.

We can divide the paddle surf boards in four disciplines, although there are also other modalities for which specific material is needed:

PADDLE SURF BOARDS:

1. ALLROUND PADDLE SURF BOARDS

Ideal for beginners to Paddle Surfing. They are the most stable and versatile. Ideal for beginners or experienced riders who just want to enjoy a ride or a day with the family.

2. TOURING PADDLE SURF BOARDS, TOURING OR TOURING

These boards are longer and narrower than the allround boards. Ideal for more experienced riders who want to enjoy long tours and excursions. 

3. WAVE PADDLE SURF BOARDS

These boards have less volume and are shorter than conventional boards. Ideal to be more manageable on a wave. 

4. PADDLE SURF RACE BOARDS

These are the ones used in competition. Long and pointed, prepared to reach the maximum speed.

OTHER MODALITIES OF PADDLE SURF:

RIVER: Extreme modality that consists of descending rivers of different flow, depending on the technical knowledge. Small and wide boards are used.

YOGA / FITNESS: Modality for Yoga and Fitness enthusiasts. Inflatable boards are recommended for their comfort.

POLO: Combination between Paddle Surf and water polo.

ADAPTED: Adaptation of Paddle Surf for people with physical disabilities.

LAND SUP: Allows to practice Paddle Surf on land.

BIG SUP: It is a board of Paddle Surfing.

SUP DOG: Practice of Paddle Surf with your dog.

SUP FISCHING: Practice of fishing from a SUP board. Manufacturers make boards specially equipped for this activity.