Improve your SUP skills with yoga, or, conversely improve your yoga skills with SUP. Whether you are an accomplished paddler, or a land lubber yogi, SUP yoga can help you improve your skills. The parallels between the two are numerous. While both are, or can be a form of exercise, both can be very relaxing and Zen-like. SUP can be very vigorous or it can be a slow, calming paddle through your favorite flat-water paradise.

Unlike many sports, SUP and Yoga are less about brute strength and more about balance and core strength, as well as flexibility. Yoga can benefit SUP enthusiasts through controlled breathing, rotational core strength and an overall limbering effect.

For experienced yogis, SUP introduces new dynamic in that the mat is no longer stationary. Even basic poses such as a down dog or tree will now require greater core stabilization to maintain balance. Many find that SUP yoga rejuvenates their interest in yoga.

Another fun way to improve your SUP skills with yoga is to perform SUP yoga in a group setting. As many have found with SUP, it is a fantastic way to relax and explore on your own, however it is also social and fun to do within a group instruction setting. Find an instructor in your area that teaches SUP yoga with a group and take a class. You will likely find it t not only be fun but also a social event. SUP’ers always are eager to welcome newcomers.

Don’t forget to factor in weather conditions, Yoga studios seldom have rain or wind to contend with; however they also typically lack the ability to hold a class during sunrise or sunset. Both are spectacular. Instructors check weather and usually schedule classes accordingly.

What type of board works best for SUP yoga? Typically a recreational shaped board is used, however, depending on your skill and balance level, race boards have been seen in SUP yoga classes. The Three Brothers Boards Blondie is a great choice for SUP yoga. For greater stability, the Three Brothers Boards Jason Ryan provides maximum stability and mat space.

Improve your SUP skills with yoga today by finding a class, getting on a board, and benefiting from improved strength, stamina, and an overall sense of well being.