Learning to Stand Up Paddleboard with REI

This post is sponsored by REI but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Living at the beach, it’s assumed you participate in most water sports. Unfortunately, I’ve never ventured into anything but surfing. I’ve always been interested in paddle boarding yet never had the opportunity to learn. Thanks to REI experiences, I finally got the chance! This past Saturday, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into the water.

We gathered at Falls Lake in Raleigh, N.C. to begin our adventure! For early October, the weather was beautiful and turned out perfect for the outing.

Our instructor, Nick, started us on land to go over some safety instructions and basics of the board. We customized our “shaft” and life jackets to fit our unique builds. We also made sure to Velcro our board’s leash to us. It was not a particularly windy day but in the case it was, our board could blow away from us without a leash… leaving us stranded. (It’s better to be safe than sorry!)

Nick slowly guided us into the water and when we were comfortable, the group made its way further out into the lake.

I was surprised at how easy it was to get onto the board. I was nervous since I don’t have the best balance but the length and buoyancy of the board made it almost effortless.

Soon enough, we were all standing. However, not without falling a couple times! Of course I have to add a picture of me struggling to show the importance of getting back up and trying again!

Nick also taught us about strokes and how to maneuver the board. There was a sense of pride and accomplishment as we all paddled down the lake!

Two hours on the lake flew by. Falls Lake was absolutely beautiful and being out on the water was so relaxing. Still, it was an amazing workout! The next couple of days my legs were sore from paddle boarding. You don’t realize how hard your working but keeping balance is a full body workout.My favorite thing about paddle boarding is that it’s a sport for ALL! The group of us ranged in age and athleticism.

That morning, I was contemplating going – I was nervous and feeling discouraged. During my experience, I met the wonderful Linda, who received chemo-therapy Thursday and was out on the lake Saturday. Her positivity and story was so inspiring. I thought about how I almost didn’t come but Linda has gone through so much to be there.

The REI experience reminded me to live life to the fullest. 

I left the REI experience with awesome new friends and an exciting new hobby. Nick gave me the names of a few lakes and places where I can rent a paddle board so I can continue to practice! Perhaps someday, I’ll be able to stand up for more than 15 minutes.

I’m also really excited that my friend, Felicia, and I found a sport with both love. Paddle boarding will now be something we get to bond over and share. Overall, I am so thankful I went on this trip. It’s moments like these that remind you how tiny you and your problems actually are.

REI Experiences

You may know REI as a place to buy tents and hiking boots but REI is really in the business of experiences. REI offers camping trips, weekend outings, lessons, etc.

REI wants to make the whole world your playground and help you fall in love with nature. Experiences are offered all around the world. If you’re ready to find adventures in your city, check out REI online.

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