Using a stand up paddle board for Yoga, or rather an inflatable floating platform (as not all Yoga ‘boards’ are actually boards) has been a ‘thing’ for a while now. With SUP’s current momentum, however, there’s a surge of interest in this area of stand up paddle boarding. Here’re a few points to consider when choosing relevant SUP kit for practising Yoga.
Width/volume
The most important things with SUP Yoga boards are width and volume, which equate to stability. Depending on your level of Yoga skill board choice should (mainly) be determined by these factors. More advanced Yogis may want narrower, lower volume platforms to increase the challenge. Also, the body of water you’re intending to perform upon should be a consideration. Choppier, open water venues, that’re exposed to the elements will require more stable craft for instance.
Durability
The durability and robust nature of your chosen Yoga SUP is another key factor. If you’re intending to raft up, where the board may be bouncing and rubbing against hard surfaces, such as quaysides, river banks and other boards, then a hard wearing PVC skin, such as you find with McConks’ inflatable range, is an important consideration. You may also be falling, which requires clambering back aboard. Lesser quality products will see deck pads start to become quickly unglued from the deck as you drag your torso and knees back onboard.
Storage/stowage
Many inflatables come with bungee cord on the deck for stowing your essentials, such as water bottles, footwear and drybags. If you’re into SUP Yoga having options for keeping your belongings above water is a point to consider. Also, securing your paddle whilst you practise Yoga needs to be carefully looked at. The last thing you want is your main form of propulsion to slide off into the depths.
Connectivity
By connectivity, we’re referring to your leash. Safety when going afloat – for any type of SUP – should be paramount. When practising SUP Yoga wearing a buoyancy aid isn’t really conducive to efficiency. A BA will get in the way of you being able to pose so there needs to be another way to connect to your biggest form of flotation. A decent coiled leash will therefore be choice. It doesn’t need to be attached to the board’s rear either. You can couple to the handle of your SUP which makes for easier posing.
The paddle
We’ve talked about making sure you having an adequate way of staying in contact with your board whilst you indulge. It might also be worth looking at adjustable paddles as these can collapse down for easier stowing. As much as you’re looking to use your floating platform for SUP Yoga you’ll most likely be wanting to actually paddle in conventional stand up paddle boarding mode at some point. With that in mind it’s your paddle that’s super important so getting hold of the best type you can is a good idea.
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