HEALTH
Two weeks ago, my colleague posted a blog on Paddle Boarding. Here is my take on the sport I love.
Standing up on a paddle board is not only a great outdoor activity to do solo or with company, it has many health benefits as well.
Paddling increases your core strength and stability since standing up on the board and paddling requires core engagement and abdominal strength. It helps to build lean muscle tone and is great for strengthening arms, legs, back and shoulders. It also builds stamina and endurance! Since it’s an enjoyable way to exercise, people can end up working out for hours before they realize they were exerting themselves. One of the positive aspects of stand up paddle boarding is that it’s a low impact workout and a great alternative for injury-prone runners.
Joint stability is enhanced because it challenges your balance by activating small muscles in the foot, ankle and lower leg which can help to treat plantar fasciitis and other ankle/foot pain. The dynamics of standing on the board with the challenge of currents and other elements of instability utilize muscles that are critical for balance and joint support in the same way that other recreational activities challenge a person.
The amazing combination of being out on the water and enjoying the natural beauty that nature offers has the positive effect of reducing stress and anxiety. The joy of socializing with other paddlers and kayakers also improves mood and outlook on life. Some paddlers report that they get a joy similar to runner’s high from paddle boarding without the intense exertion required for running.
In conclusion, paddle boarding is a very fun way to work out solo or with friends with the benefits of improved mood, improved stamina, improved full body muscular strength, reduced stress and is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature.
