SUP Yoga for Beginners

It was only a matter of time before yogis took their practice to the paddleboard. After all, a stand-up paddleboard is fairly stable has a grippy surface similar to that of a traditional yoga mat. SUP yoga challenges the yogi to be graceful with their movements and to find stillness within each posture. It’s a fun way to energize and transform your regular practice. Adding the element of water increases the amount of core stability needed for each pose. Those without a regular yoga practice will can also benefit from some SUP yoga with proper guidance and a positive attitude. If you are interested in getting a paddleboard for yoga, check out our selection SUPs here.

A few tips about SUP yoga:
If you begin to loose focus, your balance will be challenged and the board may begin to gently wobble. This is a good thing because a wobbling board is an indicator that you have either moved too deep into the posture or are not connecting with your body. Whether on the board or on the mat, a sense of grounding and stability is essential for every pose—from Reverse Warrior to Plank to Chaturanga. There’s a true sense of oneness with nature and self that comes with a floating yoga mat. It’s an incredible way to be present, let go and be challenged. As with any yoga practice, the breath should be constant and steady.

Ready to feel the warmth on your body, breath salty air and bust out some Crows on water? Here are some pointers for anyone to get started with SUP Yoga:

Wear what you’d normally wear to a yoga class—something close fitting, stretchy and quick drying. In the summer, a bikini or board shorts will be perfect. There’s always the possibility of getting wet, so bring a towel and change of clothes!

Know how to swim. You won’t be wearing a life jacket while doing yoga on a paddle board.

Take an intro to SUP Yoga class. Even if you’re an advanced yoga practitioner, it won’t hurt to follow a class the first few times. There’s always room for growth with any yoga practice! Stand-up paddleboard yoga has grown in popularity, so it’d shouldn’t be hard to find an instructor who has taken their class to the water.

Start with a warm up on land. Five to ten Sun Salutations would be perfect.

Once you hit the water, warm up by paddling. Get the blood flowing and begin to connect to your breath.

Find a quiet, calm spot on the water and paddle over to begin your class.

Keep in mind that yoga is more challenging on a paddle board, so take it slow and be mindful that you may not be able to move as freely and easily as before. As you can imagine, arm balances and standing one legged balancing postures are especially challenging. Don’t be scared, though! Trust yourself and your movements.

If you like, end with a seated meditation. This will likely be easier than normal! Try dipping your fingertips in the water in final Savasana. Pure bliss!