Wing Foiling, SUP and Surf Advanced Technique
An introduction to River SUP
Having covered the “mainstream” (no pun’s intended) flat water, surf and downwind paddling disciplines we feel it is certainly appropriate to ramp up the ante somewhat and introduce SUP river paddling. Consider it the “downhill” mountain biking version of stand up paddling as opposed to cross-country riding - with all the relative obstacles, challenges and body protection being duly warranted....
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Urdhva Mukha Svanasana / Upward Facing dog
Low to gravity, upward facing dog is a stable posture to practice on a SUP. It opens the back and stretches the front of the body which feels amazing especially when you take big deep breaths in. Press both hands evenly onto the board and imagine lifting up and out of the chest rather than simply leaning backwards. Depending on...
Duck Gybe
The Duck Gybe is a personal favourite. Not only does it feel fabulous and look amazing, but it’s also pretty functional! Due to the movement of the wing, you’re far less likely to get backwinded by your induced wind when it’s light, and the wing’s movement gets the power back on sharpish. What’s more, if you’re happily gybing, meaning that...
Utkatasana - Chair Pose - Intermediate
Great pose to strengthen the entire body and increase stamina. Feet should be placed hip distance apart either side of the handle on the centre of the board. Feet and knees are parallel and so are the arms. Make sure you don’t overarch the back by tucking the tailbone under and draw the ribs under. The best tip for increasing...
Ustrasana - Camel Pose - Advanced
This pose belongs in the category of back extensions, which focuses on bringing the spine into an extension/arch. There are a few modifications to make this pose accessible to all levels. Firstly kneel on the board ensuring your knees are hip distance apart on either side of the handle/middle as this is the widest and most stable part of the...
Anjaneyasana / Low Lunge
Lunges are great to try on a paddleboard as they are relatively easy to get into, but remain quite challenging for both body and mind. Here in this low lunge, the knee is down on the board providing a stable base. The front knee is bent at 90 degrees. The eye gaze is forward gazing at a fixed point of...
Bakasana - Crow Pose - Advanced
Not for the faint hearted! Make sure you only try this pose if you are competent with it on land because, on water, it’s definitely more challenging! The positioning of the hands is key to having a strong, stable foundation. Hands are placed parallel evenly on each side of the handle on the centre of the board. The best tips...