When you need to take a break from the rat race and enjoy the great outdoors, there’s nothing better than heading out into the water. Doing a sport in the water adds a whole new dimension to getting fit and it’s the perfect way to unwind.

Not only are you challenging yourself physically, but you are also fighting the elements for survival. Surfers face big waves, while kit surfers have to work with strong winds. All these factors help you to push yourself to your limits.

If you enjoy the thrill of working out in the water, then you’re going to love paddle boarding. You get the challenge and excitement of being out on the water, while getting in a full body workout that will not only improve your balance, but also increase your strength.

Read on to find out the full benefits of a sport that is taking the world by storm, and for good reason!

1. Low Impact

Although you are standing up during this activity, it’s very low impact. Unlike other sports, it’s probably not going to cause  you any damage to your joints, ligaments or tendons.

Paddle boarding is one of the best exercises that you can take part in if you are healing from a shoulder injury or have joint pain, but you still want to participate in adequate training. It’s gentle on joints and muscles so it shouldn’t cause you any harm.

2. Improves Your Balance

With paddle boarding, you go out into the water and stand up on the board. You need to have a lot of balance and strength in your legs to keep yourself upright.

If this isn’t a talent that you currently have, don’t worry, paddle boarding can still be for you. The sport helps you to improve your balance by activating your stabilizing muscles, while also increasing your ability to focus.

3. Increases Strength

With any form of exercise, you can feel a bit sore the next day, but this is a good sign that you are building muscle. Once you have been doing paddle boarding for a few weeks, you’ll begin to see a real difference in your body’s overall strength.

4. A Full Body Workout

If you want to find a fun and engaging activity that can give you a full body workout, look no further, as paddle boarding is perfect for you.

When you’re paddle boarding, you use every muscle in your body at some point. Your core is the pivot during this activity; it’s used to maintain balance and a good posture so your abdominal muscles and back will be gaining muscle and strength.

Your legs will build strength and muscle keeping yourself balanced on the board, while your shoulders and arms gain power by propelling you and the board through the water using a paddle.

5. Reduces Stress

After a long day at work, there’s no better way to relieve your stress than going paddle boarding. The water helps to soothe and relax us; it’s also a fantastic way to improve your mood and pump up your endorphins.

Once you get into the rhythm and you are gliding peacefully along the water, all your troubles will drop into the water and swim away!

6. It Gets You Outdoors

Most of us don’t need another excuse to get outdoors. Of course, if you’re normally out hiking and are looking for a bit of a change of scenery, then paddle boarding is a great fit. It also allows you to appreciate nature and spend some quality time on the water.

The best part is that anyone can do it, even if aren’t in great shape. If you want an excuse to spend more time outdoors, then you can paddle slowly and just take in the sights. If you’re more of a marathoner, then do intervals or take your paddling up a notch.