Water sports are something that are always kind of “under the radar,” even when they get as famous as guys like Kelly Slater on a surfboard. Maybe it has to do with the fact that a lot of people don’t have access to a natural body of water, or the fact that swimming, water polo, and diving are only mentioned once every four years at the Olympics. Either way, water sports are definitely something everyone should try at least once.
Unlike the three sports I just mentioned, all of these sports listed below require some kind of equipment, so finding an instructor and rental shop is certainly important. But immersing yourself in one of these amazing sports will show you a whole new side of water, and a whole new side of yourself. So here are 5 water sports you need to try.
Water Ski
Even though winter is coming to an end, that doesn’t mean you have to put away the skis. Water skiing builds up your upper and lower body strength, and some good balance. You get to ride behind a speedboat that pulls you along. As you get better, you can do tricks off the wake left behind the boat, as well make up your own. Water skiing will give you a workout you want and you can challenge yourself to do anything you can.
Kayak
Whether you’re whitewater or flatwater kayaking it’s a lot of fun. You can do it on a river, in the ocean, or in a lake. A kayak is a one man canoe-like boat where you sit forward and paddle on both sides. It’s great for strength training and cardio (have you ever seen rowers on a rowing team? They’re ripped). The upper body workout you get from fighting either the river current or the ocean’s pull will bulk you up faster than hours at the gym. Plus, it’s a view of the world you have probably never seen before.
Standup Paddling (Paddleboard)
Standup Paddling is, essentially, standing on a large surfboard and moving with a paddle. Don’t let that description fool you though. SUP (Standup Paddling) can be as exciting or relaxing as you want it to be. You can relax down a marina inlet, watching the shore from your little island, or ride the waves in a whole new way. Basically, you can do everything on a paddleboard that you can do on a surfboard. So whether you just want to meditate with a relaxing paddle, or try some new tricks off the waves, give standup paddling a shot.
Surfing
The original cool kid’s water sport, surfing still holds up as a great time and a lot of fun. The challenge of successfully standing on a board is a cause of whooping cheers when you finally do it. It’s a great workout for every part of your body. It builds up your ability to balance, and is a confidence boost few activities can give you. Getting together with an instructor is probably the best way to learn to surf (especially since you don’t have to go out and buy your own board), but it is the epitome of summer time fun.
Windsurf
Another board, and another variation of absolute fun. Climb back on top of your surfboard, this time with a sail on it. This surface water sport is basically upright sailing, and on a nice windy day you can hit waves and speeds that you would never be able to get to while paddling (both with a paddle, and on the board). Windsurfing definitely requires a little more skill and definitely an instructor to learn how to use effectively, but once you’re onboard, it’s the time of your life.
Water sports should be tried if you have the opportunity and the inclination. Like conquering fire, conquering water is integral to human nature. Standing, gliding and riding it is another way to challenge ourselves, and bring thrill to our lives. So if you have that urge, please leave us a comment below, and don’t forget to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
