One of the newest trends for seniors to enjoy is paddleboarding. It is an easy to learn activity and fun at any age. Paddleboarding can also help strengthen muscles while reducing stress in your daily life. Paddle boards are available in many sizes. There are also several types of paddle boards to choose from; some have a wide tip, while others are narrow and sleek. For seniors, it’s important to choose the right one. Seniors should look for a paddle board that provides stability and versatility while in use. Seniors should also find one that offers a combined blend of speed and balance, and is easy to paddle with. One of the best paddleboards for seniors is the inflatable Bluefin Cruise paddleboard. It offers everything above, plus it is made with PVC laminate military-grade material, which holds up to 28 PSI. But what exactly is paddleboarding?
Paddleboarding is a water sport, where you stand up on a board (SUP), while using a paddle to maneuver through the water. Participants will use their arms while standing and propelling themselves forward. Many consider SUP as a similar sport to surfing, fishing, and kayaking, you just use a paddle to move through the water. Many people will do other exercises while on their paddleboard, such as yoga, touring, fishing, or more.
What To Know Before Buying A Paddle board
Now that you understand what SUP paddleboarding is, let’s talk about what you need to know when buying a paddle board. First thing to know, there’s no one-size-fits-all, when it comes to paddle boards. Here are some basic factors to consider. The best paddle board for you needs to match your skill level, your weight, your height, and the purpose of how you plan to paddleboard. All of these factors are important, and will determine which type of paddle board is the right fit for your needs. For example, someone that is over 6 feet tall, needs a longer, wider, and in some cases, a thicker board to have the same comfort that a much shorter person will need. Second, there are different types of paddle boards for those going solo, compared to if you plan to pair up with a friend or the grandkids.
Are SUP boards good for exercise?
Paddle boarding is great for the heart and your overall body. In fact, the average person will burn more calories exercising in the water than on land. Plus, the more you paddle, the more you burn. Many surf paddlers can burn as much as 1000 calories in an hour. In fact, according to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), there are many health benefits to paddle boarding. However, it takes some good techniques to pull it all off. Here are three conditions to consider as a newbie to SUP paddleboarding:
- Learn the proper technique to use those big muscles.
- Balance is priority. Your balance needs to be completely under control.
- The more you paddle hard, the better you’ll get.
Can an overweight person learn SUP paddle boarding?
Absolutely. You just need to choose the right board for your weight. It is believed that touring boards are best fit for those with a bit more weight. Most touring boards will hold up to 300 lbs, sometimes even 400 pounds. These types of boards are meant for long distance paddle boarding and provide lots of speed. They are also relatively fast and perfectly stable for newbies or those just starting to learn how to paddle board. Touring boards also have thick layers of PVC to help maneuver through the water. Seniors who need a touring board should buy an inflatable SUP that weighs around 20 to 30 lbs, so they will hold your weight. Before you buy, always read the recommended weight capacity, and add an extra 50-100 pounds for your gear. This means, if you weigh 200 lbs, you should buy a board that holds at least 300 lbs.
Different Types of Paddle Boards
When choosing a paddleboard, it is always good to remember the shape of the board determines how well you will perform at paddleboarding. As mentioned above, when looking for long distances, then the touring paddle boards are best. They are longer and usually narrow, which helps by staying on for the long haul. They also offer more speed, allowing the user to glide through the water, whether on a lake, river, or the coastline.
Next is activity paddle boards. Activity paddle boards also are excellent for water-based fitness activities. Many seniors will use these boards for yoga, pilates, or other water-based activities. It offers a round-shaped nose, and is wider for more stability. The only thing is it may be more difficult to turn with an activity paddle board, compared to the touring board. If you need speed, don’t choose this one.
The last type of SUP boards are the all-round paddle boards. They are a perfect blend of speed, balance, and versatility. The all-round boards have an oval shaped nose that offers a great performance like an activity paddle board, while still being wider than your average touring board. It offers both comfort and stability, and can easily be transformed into a kayak for extra fun on the water.
How to know which SUP board size is the best for you?
It comes down to what your height and weight is, your expertise level, and are you going solo or not. Most SUP boards run about 10’8”. This size is perfect for the average-built person. On the other hand, if you are taller than 6’, heavy set, or plan to paddleboard with a friend, then we suggest buying a 12’ or 15’ paddle board.
Bottom line…
SUP paddleboarding provides a way to get fit and have fun. This water sport is an accessible and affordable way to move your body, connect with friends, all while enjoying the great outdoors. Now, take your mind off of any family dramas, work deadlines, or anything else bogging you down and go Stand Up Paddleboarding!