by Chris Gutzeit

Santa Barbara is quickly becoming California’s mecca to the fastest growing water sport in the world. Stand Up Paddle boarding a.k.a. SUP can be seen in abundance year round due to Santa Barbara’s beautiful climate. Take a walk down to the beach on any calm and glassy morning and see it for yourself. It’s hard to miss them as they appear to be walking on water,  or just out for a morning stroll exploring Santa Barbara’s coastline from a new and exciting perspective.

SUP is a sport that is being embraced by people of all ages. It appeals to the masses and anyone can do it. I recently taught a Grandmother in her 70′s who absolutely loved it!!! and all her friends thought she was crazy for even wanting to try it. Kids pick it up fast… because kids pick up everything fast and their smaller size makes it easier to learn on boards that have a volume designed to float an adult.

SUP is great for improving your core strength. I get more and more women learning to paddle everyday and have heard it compared to yoga “yoga on water.” It’s a wonderful alternative to going to the gym and you never know what you will encounter out on the sea. Dolphins are a common encounter on our adventures and are just as curious about us as we are about them,  and usually swim right under your board and look up at you through the water as they pass you by. Is there better way to start your morning? I don’t know? This is how I start mine!!!!!

Aloha,
Chris