ANOTHER GROUP GETS READY TO GO STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING
I can barely swim two lengths at the local swimming pool and thrash my way up and down any pool on holiday, much to the horror of my children, but here I was gliding, yes, gliding along a mirror-like Lough Swilly during my first lesson in the world’s fastest growing water sport – S.U.P or Stand Up Paddle Boarding.
It is a traditional Hawaiian sport which promotes balance, strength and general fitness but for me it was a chance to try something new and be a participant and not always the bystander. Even better, I didn’t have to be a super swimmer or a fitness freak to take part.
This was the closest I was getting to Cameron Diaz’ Hollywood life – a huge fan of S.U.P and while it may not be Hawaii, Rathmullan was picture perfect on this summer’s evening.
After instructions on the beach about holding the paddle, getting up on the board and standing, we hit the water. Cue the strains of the Hawaii Five-O theme song.
Clichéd but fun.
Now I was gliding -briefly- then I fell in but didn’t lose confidence, we were all wearing buoyancy aids and the water wasn’t deep. We paddled along towards Kinnegar Beach.
Our instructor, Iain Gilmore of Adventure One Surf School, paddled alongside encouraging us and ensuring we were fine. S.U.P can be as relaxing or energetic as you choose to make it.
After that first lesson I signed up for the yoga and S.U.P sessions . I mean, the kids have their camps, this was my mini camp.
I hadn’t tried yoga before either and thought it would be great to chill after the SUP session, all that deep breathing, lying on a comfy mat and maybe a little snooze. How wrong was I.
Yoga instructor Tracey Loughrey ensured every one of my limbs had their very own work out. I was stretched rack-like and that little doze I dreamed about remained just that.
Tracey was meticulous in observing if my toes were curled, another little push out here and tweaked arms and fingers there to ensure I was getting the full benefit of my first yoga lesson.
It was a revelation and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My body felt so relaxed. Billed as the ultimate workout, this yoga and and SUP combo was really invigorating.
Three more sessions to go and I’m really looking forward to them – and
I’ve never felt that way about a workout.
Adventure One Surf School have SUP sessions at Rathmullan and are
available everyday at 10am,12pm, 2pm & 4pm call 086 1931 747 to book.
YOGA/SUP sessions. 1hr of yoga with 1hr of Paddleboarding afterwards!
The easiest ULTIMATE workout!! Sessions Tuesday @7pm & Sat 11am. 4
session package is €88! 🙂 Places limited to 5 per session so call
086 1931 747 to book.
