Great Idea #8 SUP-ING
Need a bit more balance in your life? Give stand-up paddleboarding a whirl. One of the world's fastestgrowing watersports, SUP provides an overall workout focused on strength, endurance and balance. What's more, out on the ocean there's no gym membership required, nor a sweaty towel or treadmill in sight!
"SUP is defi nitely one of those sports that have taken off, as it's just so accessible," explains Elemental SUP instructor Caroline Bradley. "It's a great workout for most people and it's extremely benefi cial because it targets all the muscles in the body. In fact, it uses muscles most people have never used before, and while it's not really a cardio workout, you are working all your muscles, especially in your core. It's very therapeutic."
Caroline says, for beginners, getting the stroke paddles right is the fi rst priority, along with body posture and balance. She even recommends those experienced in yoga to try out a yoga workout on the sea, atop a soft, buoyant SUP board. "We paddle out somewhere glassy and calm and practise some yoga moves out there," she says. "It defi nitely takes yoga to a whole new level, and as you can't hear anything out there, it can feel quite surreal."
SoulKite Try this casual setup if you're not sure about SUP-ing – hire a board for one or two hours, or a whole day, and paddle around in your own time. At $20 for an hour, it's the cheapest in Perth. Point Walter, Bicton.
Action Sports WA Perfect for beginners or people wanting a little more guidance, Action Sports will teach you basic SUP-ing techniques and make sure your equipment is suited to your height and weight. You'll walk away with great technique, and an understanding of the physical benefi ts of SUP-ing. Bardon Place, Maylands.
Stand Up Paddle Sports For something different, try one of the classes from SUP Sports – think ladies-only social paddles, private lessons and fi tness-focused classes. Class prices are discounted if you bring your own board.
JH Abrahams Reserve, Crawley.
Elemental SUP If you already feel comfortable on a SUP, try one of Elemental's specialised classes. Catch waves with SUP surfing, or try something different with SUP yoga – yep, that's a downward dog on a SUP. Point Walter, Bicton.
North Freo Stand Up Surf Shop Perth's only specialist SUP shop also offers classes so you can put your new craft to the test. Lessons with a qualifi ed instructor run every weekend, or if you prefer something more personal, you can also make an appointment for a private lesson. Freshwater Bay, Peppermint Grove.
TOP TIP
Your first instinct atop the board may be to focus on your arms. Resist – it's all about the core. As the water constantly changes, keep your midsection muscles engaged for better balance.