Stand Up and Paddle!
By Donna Stark
I took my last vacation of the summer a few weeks ago with my daughters to the beautiful coast of California. It was only for a weekend getaway, but we filled it with as many ocean activities as we could. We explored some caves, we walked along the beach, my daughters took surfing lessons (I was the designated photographer), and we went paddleboarding for the first time in our lives, which I have to tell you is a great workout for your entire body! Have you tried it yet? If not, it may be time to!
The Benefits of Paddleboarding
Standup paddleboarding is becoming more and more popular among people of all ages, and honestly, why wouldn't it be? It's a great way to enjoy both the sun and water, but if you do want to try it, I would suggest learning on calm waters. My daughters and I were in the ocean and the choppy current made it more difficult than it needed to be, but we still had a great time and were able to get in a fun workout. Take a look at some of the benefits you can get as well by spending a couple of hours on a paddleboard.
- Improved balance - Whether you choose to stand or kneel, the most important thing you need to find success on the paddleboard is good balance. And if that is something you struggle with, don't worry, because paddleboarding will certainly help you improve it! This type of workout is a great way to strengthen your core and increase your stability!
- Full-body workout - You can count on using every muscle in your body while paddleboarding, especially if you are in the ocean like my daughters and I were! Your core and leg muscles will be hard at work keeping you balanced and stabilized, while your arm, back, and shoulder muscles will be grunting along as they paddle you along.
- Low-impact exercise - If you prefer low-impact exercises, add paddleboarding to your list! It's a great way to get in some exercise without having any jarring impacts placed on your joints. In fact, the only impact you may experience is if you happen to lose your balance and fall in the water.
- Reduced stress - Exercising outdoors is one of the top ways to reduce the stress from your daily life, and is especially so when water is involved! So when the water is calm, head outdoors with your paddleboard and take advantage of the beautiful day.
The Perfect Exercise
You may not have the advantage of being able to paddleboard every day, but if you do have the opportunity to be near a body of water, definitely consider adding it to your fitness routine. You won't have one bit of regret doing so!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peoria, Ariz.