8 Benefits of SUP'ing

During the summer and well into the fall, members of the Sgt. Suds crew can usually be found on the water surfing or SUP'ing. Whether it's paddling down the Potomac, on the Chesapeake Bay, or the Atlantic Ocean, we get tremendous pleasure from getting outdoors and on the water. There are a number of noteworthy benefits to the SUP lifestyle, so we figured now that we're entering the summer months, we'd share the top 8 with you: 

1. Full Body Workout: Stand-up paddleboarding engages all of the major muscle groups in the body. It works your core muscles and your arms, legs, and back as you balance and paddle. Even your toes play a part in helping you maintain balance.
2. Improves Balance: SUP requires excellent balance to stay upright on the board. This can improve balance in other aspects of your life, not just on the water.
3. Low-Impact Exercise: Paddleboarding is a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints, making it a good option for those recovering from injuries or with conditions like arthritis.
4. Improves Cardiovascular Health: Like running and aerobics, paddleboarding is an effective cardio exercise that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve cardiovascular health.
5. Reduces Stress: The calming effect of being out on the water and the rhythmic nature of the paddle strokes can significantly reduce stress and promote relaxation.
6. Increases Vitamin D Intake: Spending time outdoors in the water increases exposure to the sun, helping your body naturally produce Vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function.
7. A Fun Way to Explore: Paddleboarding offers a unique perspective on your surroundings and is a great way to explore lakes, rivers, and coastlines.
8. Improves Endurance: Over time, regular paddleboarding can help improve your endurance and overall fitness level.

Remember, safety is crucial when participating in any water sport. Always wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when paddleboarding, know the water conditions and currents and use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It's also a good idea to take a lesson or two when you're first starting out to learn proper paddleboarding techniques.

When you're done paddling, grab a bar of Sgt. Suds all-natural, cold-processed, American-made bar soap and get clean, refreshed, and smell great!