The stand-up paddle board (SUP) industry has exploded over the past few years as affordability make it possible for most people, but many are still afraid to hop on a board.

I, like many, was also afraid to try out the sport because on land my balance isn’t the greatest, and I expected it to be even worse on the water. But thanks to some professional lessons and a quality board, it turns out, SUP is really easy to do. I decided to take the plunge and try out SUP on Heffley Lake, located just south of Sun Peaks Resort, because it is home to Bodie Shandro, one of North America’s first professionally certified instructors.

Photo Credit: Bodie Shandro

For 10 years, Shandro has been an avid SUP competitor and instructor, so who could be better to take a master class from?! Right from the get-go, Shandro’s attitude and demeanour had me at ease as he explained that SUP was a non-intimidating activity and it wasn’t likely I would end up in the water unless I wanted to. Slightly sceptical, but feeling excited I headed down to the lake to try out the activity for the first time.

SUP has been on my bucket list for quite some time, but my fear of something new held me back, and since I have tried it I am regretting that I didn’t get on the lake sooner. I’m not the strongest swimmer, and only recently overcame a fear of water, a great combination I know. But honestly, I was surprised how easy SUP really is.

Shandro, who runs Paddle Surfit, gives lessons every day and has some of the best equipment in the business. His expertise and amazing boards made the experience much more enjoyable. I was taught how to get on the board from the dock, was assisted every step of the way, never rushed to do anything I didn’t feel comfortable with, and only pushed when it was necessary.

Photo Credit: Bodie Shandro

Standing up on the board wasn’t scary nor difficult, it was actually quite simple. So simple I ended up doing a yoga pose on the board, just to prove I could. The tranquillity of being on a board was something I can’t describe. It was so peaceful and fulfilling, it left me wanting to do the sport again and again.

Even when I was paddling with all my might, head-on into the wind on slightly rougher waters, not for a moment did I feel scared, wobbly, or fearful that I would end up in the lake. It’s surprising how fear holds us back.

Photo Credit: Bodie Shandro

While some of us may be fearful of trying out the sport, it is obviously very popular in the Central Interior region. Kelowna is now home to the Paddle Centre, which offers members and the public access to outrigger canoes, paddleboard storage, competitions, lessons and much more.

The centre has had tremendous success since it revamped and built a new clubhouse. Membership has risen from 27 in 2013 to 350 in 2015 and more than 300 people participated in public programs last year alone.

Photo Credit: Bodie Shandro

SUP boards can now be found at many retailers and in even places you may not think of such as Sun Peaks Resort. Shandro’s business is just a few kilometres from the resort and municipality and available for sale at a retail store at the resort. Having product available at Sun Peaks is an indicator of the popularity of SUP and the demand year round. With so many lakes available to residents and visitors and a minimal investment, the sport is expected to grow.

If you are planning to give it a try, make sure you are taking your first lesson from a reputable and reliable company that provides both experience and quality boards. It will make all the difference and keep you on the water doing something not only active but enjoyable, and available to all ages.