SUP: our first try at stand-up paddling
An inflatable board offered an enjoyable introduction to paddling and catching small waves.
SUP stands for stand-up paddling: you stand on a board and move through the water with a long-shafted paddle.
The original article introduced SUP as relatively new to Sweden and traced its roots to Hawaii, where surf instructors stood on medium-length boards with long paddles to gain a better view of incoming waves and help their students.
We had the chance to try an inflatable SUP. After 10–15 minutes, we were ready to get on the water. Within a few minutes, we felt stable. Conditions were calm, with small waves, and paddle power made it possible to catch them.
The experience suggested why SUP could suit Swedish waters: even small waves provided an enjoyable taste of surfing. Our outing was in those gentle conditions; we did not test larger waves.
We awarded stand-up paddling ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ for being great fun and good exercise, particularly for the abdominal muscles and balance.
For opportunities to try or buy a board, the original article directed readers to www.kajaktiv.se for information about demonstration days.
