INSIGHT: SWAP YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP FOR SUP SESSIONS!

Instead of a gym membership, we recommend the seaside, a lake, or a river to stay in shape!

Proprioception, core strength, cardio, and a good breath of fresh air are all on the agenda for those who choose a Stand-Up Paddle outing on nearby bodies of water.

If SUP has won over millions of enthusiasts in the past 20 years, it’s because this activity perfectly combines fun, fitness, and connection with nature.

As a pioneer and leader in the industry, GONG offers a wide range of inflatable and rigid boards for enthusiasts of this activity with numerous benefits. Starting with the benefit we just mentioned, of staying fit in a fun way and in a natural environment.

Accessible and high-performing, the SUP boards in our range allow everyone to perform on the water or simply stay physically fit. Let’s dive into the topic.

SUPer: Vilayta, GONG team rider, with an inflatable board I-SUP Race 12’6.

Full-body workout

Stand-up paddleboarding engages a wide range of muscles, making it a particularly well-rounded activity. Paddling activates the muscles in your arms, shoulders, and back. At the same time, maintaining balance on the board engages stabilizing muscles, including your core and legs. Therefore, SUP helps strengthen muscle strength, balance, and coordination.

On the cardio side, the intensity can be adjusted to your pace. A leisurely outing allows you to burn around 300 calories per hour, while a more intense session can reach 700 calories or more. It’s an excellent way to combine muscle strengthening and cardiovascular training, all while being gentle on your joints.

SUPer: Moritz, GONG team rider, with an inflatable I-SUP Race Flat Water.

The benefits for physical fitness

1. A sport accessible to everyone

SUP is suitable for both beginners in board sports and experienced practitioners. Thanks to the stability of well-designed boards like the First or I-SUP Allround, even novices can quickly feel comfortable and enjoy the benefits of this activity.

SUPers: Laury and Enzo, GONG staff, with complete First Allround packs.

For more experienced athletes, slimmer or more technical boards like our I-SUP Race allow for challenges such as covering long distances or paddling against the current. Everyone can adjust the effort to their goals, whether it's for a gentle workout or intensive training.

2. Improvement of balance and posture

Maintaining balance on the water strengthens deep muscles, which are essential for good posture. It also helps reduce the risk of back pain and improves overall stability, benefiting other sports or daily activities.

3. Low impact on the joints

Unlike sports like running, SUP is gentle on the joints. It’s an ideal activity for those looking to avoid impact while still engaging in an effective physical workout.

SUPer: Moritz, GONG team rider, with an inflatable I-SUP Race Flat Water.

SUP and athletic challenges: The Sunday marathon

Le stand-up paddle se prête parfaitement aux défis sportifs, comme ceux que l’on aime se fixer pour le plaisir ou pour se dépasser. Voici quelques idées pour transformer vos dimanches en aventures aquatiques :

Longues distances : Parcourez 10, 15 ou même 20 km sur un lac ou une rivière. Ces distances sont accessibles avec un peu d'entraînement et procurent une vraie satisfaction.
Entraînement fractionné : Alternez des périodes de pagayage intense (2 minutes) avec des phases de récupération (1 minute). Ce type de session améliore votre endurance et brûle des calories rapidement.
Sorties en groupe : Rejoindre d’autres amateurs de SUP pour des défis collectifs rend l’expérience plus motivante et conviviale.

SUPers: Vilayta and Moritz, GONG team riders, with inflatable boards I-SUP Race Flat Water.

The benefits for mental health:

Beyond the physical benefits, SUP offers a true reconnection with nature. Paddling on a calm lake, a winding river, or even a choppy sea brings a unique sense of freedom. This immersion reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances focus. It’s not uncommon for SUP enthusiasts to view their time on the water as a meditative experience, a way to center themselves and let go.

SUPers: Laury and Enzo, GONG staff, with complete First Allround packs.

Why incorporate SUP into your fitness routine?

In summary, stand-up paddle is a comprehensive, accessible, and adaptable activity that suits all fitness levels. By practicing regularly, you’ll notice significant improvements in strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility. Whether you're looking for a relaxing activity or an intense athletic challenge, SUP will meet your expectations.

So, whether it's for a structured workout or a Sunday challenge with friends, stand-up paddle is the perfect option to move, breathe, and stay in shape while enjoying the natural beauty around you. Grab your paddles!