INSIGHTS : 5 REASONS TO CRUISE ON STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDS

Turn every day into a water adventure!

Cruising on a stand-up paddleboard is an outdoor activity that beautifully blends natural environments, fitness, exploration, and even social connection. Whether you're a seasoned watersports enthusiast or a complete beginner, gliding across lakes, rivers, or calm coastal waters at your own pace is a truly memorable experience, and one that's surprisingly accessible. Here are five reasons why we think you should give it a try.

SUPers: Julie and Servane, GONG staff, on I-SUP Allround and I-SUP Cruising boards.

1. Simplicity: just grab and go

One of the greatest perks of stand-up paddleboarding is its incredible ease of use. Tutorials and advice from experienced friends will do. No complex techniques or special training needed, just inflate (if you’re using an inflatable board), grab your paddle, and you’re off. SUP in cruising mode is plug-and-play: you control the pace, the distance, and the direction. Whether you're on holiday or heading out after work, it's one of the few outdoor activities where you can be completely autonomous from day one.

SUPer: Jules with a First Allround 8’0 inflatable SUP.

2. A full-body, low-impact workout

SUP is a surprisingly effective workout that engages your core, legs, back, and arms, all while being gentle on your joints. It also stimulates your balance and proprioception, improving coordination without the strain of more intense sports. Best of all, you move at your own pace: from a relaxing glide to a heart-pumping sprint, you’re in charge of your intensity. Fitness has rarely felt so fun and refreshing.

SUPer: Kim, GONG team rider, on her First Allround.

3. Perfect for groups: share the stoke

Unlike many boardsports that lean toward solo performance, stand-up paddleboarding invites connection. It's easy to enjoy with others, whether you're exploring a lake with friends, paddling alongside your kids, or organizing a relaxed outing with family. SUP turns into a shared experience, peaceful chats between strokes, spontaneous races, or synchronized exploration of nature.

SUPers: Julie and Clément, GONG staff, on I-SUP Allround and I-SUP Cruising boards.

4. Unlock hidden places

SUP grants you quiet access to otherwise unreachable environments: tranquil lagoons, narrow inlets, meandering river bends, or hidden beaches. With virtually no noise and a minimal footprint, your board becomes a pass to explore calm, protected places that are often out of bounds for motorized boats or swimmers. It’s like holding a VIP pass to nature’s backstage.

SUPer: Vilayta, GONG team rider, on his I-SUP Explorer.

5. It’s always on: sun’s out, board’s out

Stand-up paddleboarding doesn’t wait for waves, wind, or complicated forecasts. If there’s daylight and calm water, it’s a perfect SUP day. Whether it’s a sunny winter morning or a hot summer evening, your board is always ready. That consistency means more time on the water and fewer excuses to stay inside.

SUPer: Hina, GONG team rider, on her First Cruising.

SUP cruising is simple, social, healthy, and wildly accessible. Whether you're seeking solitude, fitness, or connection with others, it’s a discipline that welcomes everyone. So why wait? Grab a board, step out, and start paddling your way into a new kind of freedom.