Pressed up against the demands of work, family, and fitness goals â all while striving for balance and mindfulness. Itâs no wonder we can feel like weâre in over our heads. Grab a paddle and get ready to surface.
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âMy Favourite Thingsâ
Slicing the paddle through the water, I count strokes to the rhythm of the waves breaking beneath the board. A warm burn spreads outward from my core muscles, down my thighs and up into my arms and shoulders. Soon the burn will intensify and the endorphin rush will kick in. Focusing only on the next stroke, the demands of the day have fallen away.
Standup paddleboarding (or SUP) is an excellent all around exercise. It activates all the major muscle groups and improves core strength and balance. The calming affect of being on the water is a known stress reducer, whether you choose a high intensity workout or a casual paddle with friends.
Counting off a few more strokes, I take a deep breath of the salt-tinged, air before stopping and looking back towards the city. Everything from here looks different. My perspective has shifted.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or beginner; paddleboarding is relatively easy to learn. Vancouver, like many water cities, has several accessible and affordable rental locations. Soâ stand up, grab a board, and paddle a path to fitness and mindfulness.