Do I need a licence to paddle board in the UK?
Yes, you do need a licence to use a paddleboard on a canal. If you try stand-up paddleboarding with a club, they will arrange the licence for you. If you want to go on your own, have a look at our short term licences. Our 30-day licence can be used on 30 different days throughout the year. It’s a common misconception that you can paddle board freely anywhere with no limitations but in the UK this isn’t the case. As you will see below, while there are plenty of free waterways and bodies of water you can traverse without limitations, some managed waters do require a licence.Yes you can paddleboard on the Thames or use any type of craft on the non-tidal River Thames between Cricklade Bridge and Teddington Lock, and the short section of the tidal River Thames between Teddington Lock and the Port of London Authority’s boundary, including backwaters and marinas.
Am I too old to paddle board?
In fact, paddle boarding can be a great low-impact exercise for people of all ages. As we age, it’s important to stay active and maintain our muscle strength and balance. Paddle boarding can help with both. Plus, it’s a fun and enjoyable way to get some exercise in. Paddle boarding is an effective and enjoyable way to lose weight and improve your overall fitness. By incorporating structured workouts, interval training, and SUP yoga into your routine, you can burn calories, build muscle, and enhance your cardiovascular health.The average person will burn about 1200 calories during 3 hours of paddle boarding. This is based on a person weighing 150 pounds and paddling at a moderate pace.Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent full-body workout, meaning, it works all the muscles in your body – your shoulders, chest, back, core, arms and legs. And while you’re getting fit, you get to be outside, in the sun, enjoying beautiful views and the sounds of nature.Paddle boarding is an effective and enjoyable way to lose weight and improve your overall fitness. By incorporating structured workouts, interval training, and SUP yoga into your routine, you can burn calories, build muscle, and enhance your cardiovascular health.Falling off your paddle board is bound to happen, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler. It’s part of the adventure and can even be a fun part of learning. However, knowing how to fall correctly can help you avoid injuries and make your paddling experience more enjoyable.
Is paddle boarding hard for beginners?
Not at all. Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is one of the most beginner-friendly water sports out there. Because it’s a low impact sport, it’s accessible for all ages. With the right board, calm conditions, and a little guidance, most people are up and paddling within their first session. Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent full-body workout, meaning, it works all the muscles in your body – your shoulders, chest, back, core, arms and legs. And while you’re getting fit, you get to be outside, in the sun, enjoying beautiful views and the sounds of nature.During summer, popular paddle boarding spots in the UK can be buzzing with activity. Autumn, however, brings a calmness to the water that’s hard to find during peak season.
How much do paddle boards usually cost?
Stand-up paddle boards can vary in price, ranging from about $200 to around $3000. If you are lucky, you will also have a chance to find a quality board for under $500. The paddle board price is generally influenced by materials, brand, size, features, and construction quality. You will find relatively cheap paddleboards at Costco. Prices range from $250 to $650, depending on the model.For novice paddlers who want a good-quality SUP experience, I would recommend budgeting around $1,000 and looking for paddleboards in the middle of the price range. At this pricing tier you will begin to experience better performance on the water and the construction will be a bit higher quality than low-level boards.If one of you is significantly larger, they should ideally sit in the back, as this will help with weight distribution and steering. If one paddler is more of a beginner, the more experienced should also take the rear position as they’ll have better control over the kayak’s direction.Fitness level: If you’re looking for a low-impact activity that is easy on the joints, paddle boarding may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a more intense upper body workout, kayaking is king.