8 Fun Activities To Do On Your Paddleboard Without Ever Standing Up
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Have you ever wondered – “Can you sit on a paddleboard?”
Well – If you think that stand-up paddleboarding is all about, well, standing… then think again!
Today, I’m here to spill the beans on how you can have a blast on your paddleboard without ever getting on your feet.
Whether you’re a SUP aficionado or a newbie, these seated activities will take your seated paddleboarding experience to a whole new level.
| Looking for our best paddle board product recommendations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Buyer Guides |
Table Of Contents
- Can You Sit On A Paddleboard?
- 8 Best Seated Activities On A Paddleboard:
- ACTIVITY 1: SEATED YOGA ON A PADDLEBOARD
- ACTIVITY 2: STARGAZING ON THE PADDLEBOARD
- ACTIVITY 3: SEATED MEDITATION ON THE WATER
- Thurso Surf Deluxe Paddle Board Seat
- ACTIVITY 4 – PADDLEBOARD PICNIC
- Yeti Hopper Flip 12
- ACTIVITY 5 – CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY ON YOUR SUP
- GoPro Hero Black 11
- ACTIVITY 6 – FISHING ADVENTURES ON YOUR PADDLEBOARD
- Sea Eagle FS126 FishSUP
- ACTIVITY 7 – BIRD WATCHING FROM THE WATER
- Waterproof Low Light Binoculars
- ACTIVITY 8 – PADDLEBOARD WITH YOUR PUP
- SUP- Now Paddleboard Dog Traction Pad
- Can You Sit On Your Paddleboard? Yes – And There Are Benefits:
- Conclusion
- Can You Sit On A Paddleboard FAQs
Can You Sit On A Paddleboard?
The answer is YES!
Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle. While many folks associate paddleboarding with gracefully gliding across the water while standing, there’s a world of fun to be had without ever leaving your seat.
8 Best Seated Activities On A Paddleboard:
Let’s explore eight exciting things you can do on your paddleboard while sitting down.
ACTIVITY 1: SEATED YOGA ON A PADDLEBOARD
Picture this: You, your paddleboard, and a session of yoga poses that’ll leave you feeling both zen and accomplished. Seated yoga on a paddleboard adds an extra layer of challenge, as you engage your core for stability while finding your inner peace amidst the ripples.
Here are 3 simple paddleboard yoga poses you can without standing:
Pose 1: Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Instructions:
- Sit on your heels and slowly lower your forehead to the paddleboard.
- Extend your arms forward or rest them alongside your body.
- Allow your body to surrender to the support of the board and let go of any tension.
Pose 2: Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
Instructions:
- Sit with your legs extended in front of you, feet flexed.
- Inhale, lengthening your spine.
- Exhale, hinging at your hips, and reach towards your toes.
- Hold onto your shins, ankles, or feet, depending on your flexibility.
- Feel the stretch along your hamstrings and lower back while maintaining a relaxed neck.
Pose 3: Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Instructions:
- Start on your hands and knees near the center of the board.
- Lift your hips towards the sky, straightening your legs.
- Keep your hands shoulder-width apart, fingers spread for stability.
- Allow your head to hang freely between your arms.
- Pedal your feet to stretch your calves and hamstrings.
ACTIVITY 2: STARGAZING ON THE PADDLEBOARD
As the sun sets, swap the city lights for the stars above.
Paddleboarding at night offers a front-row seat to a celestial spectacle. Check the lunar calendar, choose a clear night, and let the gentle lapping of the water accompany your stargazing adventure.
Here are some quick tips to improve your stargazing experience:
1 – Choose The Right Location: Select a spot away from city lights, where light pollution is minimal. Tranquil lakes, rivers, or coastal areas with little artificial light interference offer the best stargazing conditions.
2 – Bring Comfortable Seating: Make your stargazing session comfortable by bringing a cushion or a padded seat for your paddleboard. This way, you can relax and focus on the celestial display without feeling discomfort.
3 – Use Red Light: Preserve your night vision by using a red flashlight or headlamp instead of a white one. Red light is less likely to disrupt your ability to see the stars, allowing your eyes to adjust to the darkness more effectively.
4 – Identify Constellations: Familiarize yourself with the night sky by learning a few constellations and major celestial objects. Smartphone apps designed for stargazing can help you identify stars, planets, and other points of interest. Look for the app – Stellarium 😉
ACTIVITY 3: SEATED MEDITATION ON THE WATER
Experience the serenity of sitting meditation on your paddleboard. Let the gentle movement of the water beneath you and the sounds of nature create a meditative ambiance. It’s a mindful way to connect with both yourself and the natural world.
Here are some basic instructions to get you started:
| Step 1 – Find A Quiet Place | If you’re doing it on your SUP then paddle out and find a spot that is away from distractions and the hustle and bustle of everyday life. |
| Step 2 – Get Comfortable | Close your eyes or maintain a soft gaze. Relax your shoulders, jaw, and any tension in your body. Find a comfortable but alert posture. |
| Step 3 – Focus On Your Breath | Direct your attention to your breath. Notice the sensation of each inhale and exhale. You can focus on the rise and fall of your chest or the feeling of air passing through your nostrils. |
| Step 4 – Observe Thoughts Without Judgement | Thoughts may arise—acknowledge them without judgment, and then gently bring your attention back to your breath. Think of your thoughts like clouds passing by in the sky. |
Got it? Now go practice 🧘
Here is a great seat for you to use for your meditation sessions:
Thurso Surf Deluxe Paddle Board Seat
Where To Buy It: Amazon
Features & Specs:
– This seat will fit on 99% of the paddleboards out in the market.
– Built by a well-known and reputable company.
– Designed for ergonomic comfort so that you can have a more cushioned ride.
– Very soft and comfy (while keeping your back straight)
| Here are more examples of great paddleboarding seats: 10 World-Class Paddleboard Seats To Try In 2023 |
ACTIVITY 4 – PADDLEBOARD PICNIC
Who said picnics are reserved for dry land? Imagine floating on the water, surrounded by nature, while enjoying your favorite snacks. Pack a waterproof bag with some easy-to-eat treats, and turn your paddleboard into the ultimate floating picnic spot.
If you don’t want to do it in the water, then you can also paddle out to a little island or inlet for your picnic and enjoy fun with your friends and family (don’t forget the food) 👩🍳
Can you sit on a paddleboard while eating something…. um YES! (yummy)…
Here is a great waterproof bag to use for a picnic:
Yeti Hopper Flip 12
Where To Buy: Amazon
Why It’s Awesome:
– Can keep up to 12 cans of drink cold (plus ice)
– You can easily attach it to the d-rings on your paddleboard
– Keeps your food cold for the entire day
– Top-quality product that you can use for any activity (besides paddlebarding)
– Fully waterproof (yes – that’s important)
| Here are some more examples of great paddleboard coolers: 11 World-Class Paddleboard Coolers That You Need In 2023 |
ACTIVITY 5 – CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY ON YOUR SUP
Can you sit on a paddleboard while taking photos? If the answer is yes, then unleash your inner photographer as you capture breath-taking scenes from the unique vantage point of your paddleboard.
The low angle over the water offers a perspective that’s hard to beat, and you can easily get really close to nature to make it a great shot.
Make sure that you are using a waterproof camera though because you don’t want to take a spill and ruin your beautiful camera.
Here is a great camera for paddleboarding:
GoPro Hero Black 11
Where To Buy: Amazon
Why It’s Awesome:
– 27MP Camera
– Waterproof
– Emmy Award Winning Hypersmooth 5.0 Stabilization
– Great Battery life.
ACTIVITY 6 – FISHING ADVENTURES ON YOUR PADDLEBOARD
For those who love the thrill of the catch, why not turn your paddleboard into a fishing vessel? Fishing from a seated position provides a relaxed and enjoyable angling experience. Pack your fishing gear, find a cozy spot on your board, and let the gentle rocking of the water enhance your fishing zen.
Can you sit on a paddleboard to fish? Heck yes! I know the picture isn’t but you can ;)!
| Here’s how to convert your paddleboard into a fishing SUP: See How Easy You Can Turn Your SUP Into A Fishing Paddleboard |
Here is my favorite fishing paddleboard:
Sea Eagle FS126 FishSUP
Where To Buy: Amazon
Key Features:
– Allows up to 370lbs in weight
– 12’6″ in size
– Comes with backpack, board, swivel seat, paddle & pump
– 3 year warranty on your order
ACTIVITY 7 – BIRD WATCHING FROM THE WATER
Bird watching takes on a whole new dimension when done from the tranquillity of a paddleboard. Glide silently through the water and observe feathered friends up close. Don’t forget your binoculars and a waterproof camera to capture those avian moments.
Here is my recommendation for nice binoculars (that are waterproof):
Waterproof Low Light Binoculars
Where To Buy: Amazon
Why They Are Awesome:
– Works well in low light so you can use them whenever you want
– Waterproof and fog resistant so they won’t mist up
– High magnifications (you get a field view of 374 ft at 1100 yards
– Budget friendly
ACTIVITY 8 – PADDLEBOARD WITH YOUR PUP
Paddleboarding with your furry friend transforms your SUP experience into a delightful adventure for both you and your canine companion.
Picture this: you, your trusty paddleboard, and your dog, gliding through the water in perfect harmony. Taking your dog on a SUP adds an extra layer of joy as you navigate the gentle waves together. Your pup, securely perched on the board, becomes your water-loving co-pilot as you paddle through nature’s wonders.
| Want to teach your dog how to paddleboard? Read this… The Ultimate Paddleboard Dog Training: Teach Your Furry Friend to Ride A SUP… Fast! |
Here is a really awesome traction pad that you can add to your SUP:
SUP- Now Paddleboard Dog Traction Pad
Where To Buy: Amazon
Why I Love It:
– This is a grip cushion for where your pup will stand.
– It has diamond grooves that have high grip and it uses 3M adhesives to protect your SUP and make sure that the pad stays in place.
– It’s 26″x 19″ which is big enough for even two dogs to lie down.
Can You Sit On Your Paddleboard? Yes – And There Are Benefits:
There are actually some really nice benefits to sitting while SUPing…
| Enhances Core Strength | Seated paddleboarding engages your core muscles as you maintain balance and stability on the board. The continuous effort to stay centered strengthens your core over time, contributing to better posture and overall core stability. |
| Promotes Relaxation | Seated paddleboarding engages your core muscles as you maintain balance and stability on the board. The continuous effort to stay centered strengthens your core over time, contributing to better posture and overall core stability. |
| Low-Impact Exercise | Seated paddleboarding is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints. This makes it suitable for individuals of various fitness levels, including those with joint concerns or injuries, providing an effective workout without unnecessary strain. |
| Improves Balance and Coordination | Maintaining balance while seated on a paddleboard challenges your proprioception and coordination. Regular practice enhances these skills, leading to improved overall balance and coordination, both on and off the water. |
| Encourages Social Interaction | Seated paddleboarding is a social activity that can be enjoyed with friends, family, or even as part of a group class. Sharing the experience with others enhances the enjoyment and provides an opportunity for social interaction on the water. |
| Aids in Posture Improvement | The focus on core engagement and body awareness during seated paddleboarding contributes to improved posture. Over time, you may notice enhanced spinal alignment and increased awareness of maintaining a strong and healthy posture. |
Conclusion
There you have it, fellow paddleboard enthusiasts – eight fantastic ways to enjoy your paddleboard without ever standing up. If you’ve ever thought to yourself: “can I sit on a paddleboard?” Then I hope that you have your answer. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, these seated activities guarantee a memorable time on the water. So, the next time you grab your paddle, consider taking a seat and exploring a whole new dimension of paddleboarding fun.
| Looking for insider guides to some amazing paddle boarding locations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Location Guides |
Can You Sit On A Paddleboard FAQs
Can I use any paddleboard for seated activities?
While many paddleboards can be used, it’s advisable to choose one with a stable design and features that enhance sitting comfort.
Is it safe to fish from a paddleboard?
Fishing from a paddleboard can be safe if you follow safety guidelines, wear a life jacket, and choose suitable fishing gear.
Can I practice yoga on a paddleboard as a beginner?
Yes, seated yoga on a paddleboard is beginner-friendly. Start with simple poses and gradually progress as you gain confidence.
What should I pack for a paddleboard picnic?
Pack easy-to-eat snacks, a waterproof bag, and consider bringing a small cooler with refreshing beverages.
