With the Philippines’ unmatched beaches, stunning lakes, magnificent waterfalls, and tropical climate, it’s no wonder that watersports continue to fare well in this country of 7,000+ islands. There’s surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, wakeboarding, and, most recently, stand-up paddle-boarding.
An offshoot of surfing, Stand-up Paddle-boarding or SUP began in Hawaii and is the fastest growing watersport in the world today. Unlike traditional surfing where the rider is sitting or prostrate until a wave comes, SUPers remain upright on their boards and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water. Variations of the sport now exist such as flat water paddling for outdoor recreation, fitness, or sightseeing, racing on lakes, large rivers and canals, surfing on ocean waves, paddling in river rapids (whitewater SUP), SUP Yoga, fishing, and long-distance SUP.
If you’re looking to try your hands at a watersport, why not make it SUP and be a SUPer? Here are 6 compelling reasons why you should!
6. It’s really easy to learn
At FiliSup (fb.com/filisup), one of the leading SUP lessons and tour providers, beginners are subjected to a simple, easy-to-understand inland briefing. Its owner SUP instructor Tono Legarda will discuss and demonstrate the basics of stand-up paddle-boarding in just about 20 minutes. This includes getting familiar with the equipment – board and paddle – as well as the dos and don’ts.
You begin by kneeling on the board
5. It appeals to a wider range of audience
Unlike surfing and other more technical watersports where being in tiptop shape is a priority, SUP is chill enough for those who aren’t gym regulars. It’s not so extreme as to detract timid individuals. People as young as 12 years old can try it too!
#bffgoals
4. It’s a total workout
Make no mistake — while SUP is a more relaxed watersport compared to others, the motions needed for this activity do engage the entire body. The arms, back, and core when paddling, and the legs to remain upright (but you can sit down when you’re tired). It may not be grueling but your endurance will be tested.
Take five!
3. You’re less likely to topple over
Just like in other watersports, stand-up paddle-boarding relies on wind and current. The difference is because of the paddle you’ll have more control over your direction and pace. The board also provides balance allowing you to stand or to sit and even lie down when you feel like it. It’s often very chill, I tell you.
As you can see, the boards are really stable
2. It’s a different way to go sightseeing
SUP is fast enough for you to go from point A to point B, but it’s also slow enough to grant you ample time to immerse yourself in the surroundings. It’s a great way to get a different perspective of a place, like SUP in Taal Lake. It’s refreshingly unconventional and you can take in more of the view.
You’ll really get to see the surroundings in a very different light
1. You can easily purchase your own equipment
So you realize you’re really into SUP? And feel like you should get your own paddle and board? Fret not, Philippine Watersports Hub offer high-quality BIC paddle boards.
Very satisfied with these reliable BIC boards!
The BIC brand, famous for its writing products, had expanded their operations to manufacturing watersports equipment. BIC’s legendary construction technology had allowed the company to produce high quality surfboards, kayaks, and now paddleboards. BIC’s most popular range is Duratec made to withstand use and abuse. It’s perfect for individuals as well as resort owners who’d like to consider paddle-boarding as an attraction. Cool eh?
*All unmarked photos are courtesy of Tono Legarda. Know more about SUP here.
Philippine Watersports Hub
9641 Kamagong St., Makati City
(02) 403-8368
So, these are the reasons why you should try SUP if you haven’t already. What other water activities are you planning to try this summer?
