Aloha!! Welcome to a new article from the SUP FIT YOGA blog.
Today, I want to dive deeper into the world of Paddle boarding (SUP) in Arguineguin and why it is, for me, one of the best places on the island to practice it. But before we get into it, let’s hit play on our imagination…
Picture the gentle sway of a board on calm waters, the sun descending on the horizon, and the breeze caressing your skin.
This is the magical world of Paddle Surf (SUP), an experience that blends a connection with nature, exercise, and serenity. In this article, we’ll explore the roots, benefits, and the irresistible allure of SUP, highlighting why Arguineguín is already known as the ideal spot for this aquatic adventure.
Let’s start from the beginning… and I’m not referring to the origin of SUP.
What does SUP mean?
What’s SUP all about? What does SUP mean? Why SUP?
I think these have been the most frequently asked questions so far, so let me explain quickly.
SUP is the acronym for Stand Up Paddle in English, which you may know what it means. It’s known by many names: Stand Up Paddleboarding, Stand Up Paddle Surf, paddleboarding… In Spanish, we call it pádel surf, although we often write it using both languages, paddle surf.
Now that this is clarified, let’s get to its origin.
Stand Up Paddleboarding, known as “Hoe he’e nalu” in Hawaiian, combines the ancient Polynesian tradition of paddling with the essence of surfing.
While its roots go back more than 1,000 years when it was primarily used for transportation, SUP experienced a renaissance in the 1960s thanks to the beach boys of Waikiki, Hawaii.
Initially, surf school instructors used these boards to supervise their students and alert them to incoming waves since standing allowed for better visibility.
Standing also enabled them to reach more distant and less crowded wave breaks, allowing them to surf more waves in less time.
Surf legends like Laird Hamilton, David Kalama, or Rich Thomas used it as a comprehensive workout and an alternative to surfing when the sea was calm and didn’t offer wave conditions.
Due to its increasing popularity in the 2000s, the surfing aspect took a back seat, and it evolved into a more recreational and playful sport.
Since then, the number of practitioners worldwide has continued to grow, and it has evolved to the point of having competitions in various categories globally.
What makes SUP special?
SUP is not just a sport; it’s a multisensory experience that provides both physical and mental benefits.
Standing and paddling on a board over the sea, where you’re working on your balance from the get-go, requires extra concentration to avoid falling into the water.
This focus immerses you in a complete exercise for all muscle groups and all in an active mindfulness. Moreover, SUP has no entry barriers; from beginners to experts, everyone can enjoy this activity.
The versatility of SUP is reflected in its various disciplines, including racing, touring, surfing, yoga, fitness, pilates, and more.
What equipment do I need for SUP?
To start enjoying SUP, it’s crucial to have the right equipment.
There’s a wide variety of boards, from those designed for riding waves to those ideal for yoga and fitness (maybe I’ll talk about this in another article).
Now, focusing on the basics, you need:
- A board based on the discipline you’re practicing.
- A paddleboard fin.
- The SUP paddle.
- A leash or cord, which is the primary safety element, as it’s the “rope” that keeps you attached to the board at all times.
- The PFD (Personal Flotation Device), which, in the absence of a vest, is often used in open waters or more technical tours.
Also, specific clothing according to the location and season will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Now, let’s talk about the physical and mental benefits that SUP offers…
Each paddle stroke becomes a complete exercise, activating all the muscles in your body. Even if you’re on your knees, you’ll work a significant part of your upper body, core, glutes, and the posterior chain of your legs.
However, it’s called “stand-up paddling” for a reason, haha! So the goal is for you to stand up and work your entire body without realizing it because you’ll be so focused on balance that you won’t even notice.
It’s a comprehensive workout that awakens your energy, strengthens your muscles, and improves your endurance.
But not only that, paddle surfing is a therapy for the mind, a break from daily routine that allows you to disconnect and find peace in the rhythm of the waves with each stroke.
I assure you that on the shore, you won’t just leave your “cholas”, (flip-flops in canarian); while you’re in the water, your day-to-day worries will stay there too.
Where to do paddle boarding (SUP) in Gran Canaria?
On the coast of Gran Canaria, we encounter very different conditions.
While, to start in this sport, we look for a calm sea with little or no wind, the area that offers the most security, tranquility in its waters, and less wind is the southwest area, mainly in the municipality of Mogan.
This municipality, besides having one of the best climates in the world, has the beach of Las Marañuelas in Arguineguin, which is protected from one side by the wall of the harbour and from the other by the natural rocky wall that closes the bay, what it makes it a paradise for SUP lovers.
On the other hand, it’s rare for there to be poor conditions in Arguineguin. Still, if that were the case, you are a short distance from Playa del Pajar, which, although it belongs to another municipality, is right next to Arguineguin so you will still continue with your paddling plans.
This is the best alternative when the wind blows in Arguineguin, and it also boasts a spectacular rocky landscape, making photos in this area an extra treat.
Did you know that Arguineguin offers enchanting sunsets?
Sunsets in Arguineguin are a spectacle in themselves. While gliding on your board over calm waters, the sun usually paints the sky with warm and vibrant tones. The combination of SUP practice and contemplating a Canarian sunset from your board creates a unique atmosphere, filled with positive energy and natural beauty, creating unforgettable memories.
Who can practice Paddle boarding (SUP) in Arguineguin?
You might be a watersports enthusiast, someone looking for a new way to stay fit, wanting a different beach day, trying something for the first time, or eager to challenge yourself by doing something you think you can’t…
It doesn’t matter; paddle boarding is for everyone. You don’t need special skills or extensive training. Even beginners can find their balance quickly.
Is it long that you would like to give a try to SUP and you still haven´t do it?
If you’re considering to try paddle boarding in Gran Canaria, for the reasons I explained above, I encourage you to come to Arguineguin to do it.
Don’t tell me you’re too old, too clumsy, or that you lack balance because all of that is just excuses you’re telling yourself to justify why you haven’t done it yet.
If you genuinely want to get on a board, put all that aside and let me help you.
Plan your activity in advance, and remember that you’re in a natural environment, and weather conditions can surprise you at any time.
You have several options, whether you have experience or not. You can rent your equipment and venture to discover paddle boarding on your own.
However, if you’re not familiar with the area, how quickly conditions can change, and especially if you don’t have previous experience, you shouldn’t venture out of the bay without the assistance and supervision of an instructor, as you might get into a bit of a scare.
If you don’t want to end up in Tenerife (which, although we have it nearby, it’s not the kind of place you’d want to go paddle surfing), then I encourage you to book at least one paddle boarding classto enjoy it safely and focus on advancing your technique and enjoying the experience.
SUP FIT YOGA, your paddle boarding school in Arguineguin, Gran Canaria
At SUP FIT YOGA, you have super stable equipment specifically designed for SUP Yoga, meaning wider boards that provide greater balance, perfect for enjoying your experience.
But if you want to continue progressing and move on to narrower boards, you also have that option. Even if you’re looking for a SUP Race board, we have that too.
So, book your paddleboard, class, or paddle boarding tour online, immerse yourself in the waters of Arguineguín, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of SUP in this paradise corner of Gran Canaria.
Remember that if you haven’t already, you can subscribe to my newsletter and get a €5 discount on your first reservation through the website.
I hope to see you soon gliding on the waters of Arguineguin with SUP FIT YOGA, your destination for a unique connection with the sea and good energy!
See you on the sea, enjoying and riding high!
Mireie Cubero
Founder of SUP FIT YOGA
