Only a few years have passed since the precursors of this sport were introduced, stand-up paddling, or paddling upright on a board, is a definite sport and is booming, with an exponential growth in the number of fans and an increasingly complete and innovation-oriented range of equipment. Just think of carbon oars and the continuous lightening of boards.
Just as it was many years ago for windsurfing and recently for kite boarding, stand-up paddling is considered a “crossover” sport, i.e. it attracts the attention of fans of other water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, windsurfing and kitesurfing, just to name a few. The reasons for the enthusiasm surrounding stand-up paddling are many: although for a windsurfer or kiteboarder at first glance it may seem a bit monotonous, it is actually a lot of fun.
Simply by paddling on a SUP board, you are moving along the coast, therefore, the activity is quite enjoyable and rewarding, also considering the fact that, from the point of view of physical fitness, it is an excellent training. It is also necessary to note that some of the most modern boards offered by manufacturers are equipped with a mast that can be used as a windsurfer for weak winds. The great advantage over the classic surf is to ride smaller waves and in advance.
The technique is basically the same as surfing with the added advantage of using an oar not only to improve balance, but also to perform radical maneuvers. Standing on the edge also allows you to choose the best waves. The other advantage, especially for surfers and kite surfers who frequent less windy places, is to be able to go in the water and train continuously.