Stand up paddle boarding is another take on surfing which is taking the fitness world by quite a storm. It is deemed as one of the best full body workouts which involve a combination of balance, strength and endurance training. You can burn anywhere from 305 to 1125 calories depending on your pace and the way of your paddling. Some casual leisurely paddling will burn much less calories than a full blown intensive paddle race. Paddling is also a super fun adventure sport during the holidays whether you want to challenge the rough waters or drift around calmly absorbing the serenity of your surroundings.
However, the first step to jump on the paddling bandwagon is to get a quality stand up paddle board for yourself. Here are the few things you should be looking for while getting the paddle board.
- The Construction of the Board
There are a variety of boards available in the market ranging from boards which are inflatable to ones made out of epoxy over foam. The epoxy boards are one of the most common boards you will spot and it is mainly because of their durability and versatility. They are also quite affordable which makes it the perfect choice for beginners. The inflatable boards are also very durable and quite a treat for those paddlers who are also travel freaks. Inflatable paddle boards are not only easy to store in a small apartment but also quite easy to carry if you are travelling.
- The size of the Board
When it comes to the size of the boar, both the length as well as the breath of the board is of equal importance. The breath of the board is essential to maintain its stability and they are made as wide as 33 inches. The narrower boards are lightweight which make them easier to maneuver and are best suited for people who are on the lighter side of the weighing scale. However, if you have a wider body or do not balance quite well yet then you should be going for wider boards that will help you distribute the weight of your body evenly on the surface of the water. They are the best option for beginners.
When it comes to the length of the board, you can choose from 10 to 14 feet. The height and weight of the paddler is crucial to determine the length that it best suited for them. You should also keep in mind the space that is available to you for storing the board and if you want to carry it with you to far off places.
- The type of board
There are two main types of paddling boards available commonly. One is the traditional all-rounder board which is great for beginners and paddling leisurely in calm waters. The other type is the displacement board which has a pointier nose and a narrower to cut through water and maneuver it easily during races and for tackling fierce water.
Well, it is not easy to choose the best when there are so many brands available, but 10revs.com has made it easier to find the perfect paddle board by comparing the features, weighing pros and cons of top 10 paddle boards reigning the market.
