What is SUP?
SUP stands for “stand-up paddling”, but the new trend sport from Hawaii is also often called “stand-up surfing” or simply “paddle boarding”. The boards are similar to surfboards, except that you don’t paddle on them lying down with your hands, but standing up with a long paddle.
Where does SUP come from?
Stand up paddle surfing originally goes back to Polynesian fishermen who used to stand up in their canoes off the coast of Tahiti. A long time later, SUP became a convenient way for surf instructors in Hawaii to get from the shore to the wave-breaking reefs and back more quickly by using a paddle. Thanks to the elevated position on the board, the surf instructor also has a better overview of the surfing students. On windless and waveless days, it was also an alternative to windsurfing or surfing for a few active people. Around 2000, surf legends such as Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama and Robby Naish developed SUP into a water sport in its own right. This technique is now becoming increasingly popular as a recreational sport.
Who is SUP for?
For everyone!
Regardless of age and athletic ability, SUP can be learned quickly in flat water. The SUP boards are very stable due to their size and width, which makes it easier to balance. The only requirement is that you know how to swim in case you fall into the water.
You determine your own effort, pace and breaks. In contrast to other sports, which usually require a long period of practicing and learning technique, standing on the board and paddling your first stretches is easy. Anyone who falls into the water is quickly back on the board and can continue paddling.
Fitness & Lifestyle
SUP offers a very good all-round workout. Everyone can choose their own level: work out to the max by paddling fast and powerfully or glide along slowly and comfortably and use the sport to relax.
Almost all muscle groups are addressed, the joints are spared and endurance is trained. Injured or weakened muscles can be built up and tension released. SUP is increasingly being recommended by sports physicians and physiotherapists as part of prevention and therapy.
All this combined with the unique surfing lifestyle that the SUP also offers. Fancy enjoying the Hawaiian hang-loose feeling in the middle of the lake on local waters with a unique panorama of the city and mountains?
Robby Naish’s stand up paddling at its best
The living legend Robby Naish rides the same wave in Costa Rica on a SUP for over 2 minutes. To enjoy.