Single Leg Deadlift
This SUP balance exercise is great for strengthening your core as well as improving mobility in your glutes, hamstrings and hips, all of which are essential when discussing how to improve balance for paddleboarding. To do a single leg deadlift you need to start in a standing position with your feet shoulder width apart. Shift your weight to your right leg, with a slight bend in the knee, and begin to drive your left foot back, keeping your leg straight, whilst tipping your torso forward until it’s almost parallel to the floor. Keep your arms straight, at shoulder height and perpendicular to the wall. Pull your left leg forward and pull your torso up until you’re in standing position again. This is one rep. You can repeat this as many times as you feel comfortable, making sure to switch your leading leg.
Warrior Yoga Pose
When discussing how to improve balance for paddleboarding, there are many different yoga exercises you can practice. Practicing yoga in general will help you improve your balance, however one of the best poses you can do for helping balance and coordination is the Warrior. You can start with Warrior I pose which is in a standing position. Step into a forward lunge position, with your front foot facing forward and your back leg at a 45 degree position. Raise your arms above your head, keeping your shoulders down, lift your chin to look at your hands overhead, hold this pose and then switch legs.
For Warrior II, stand with your feet wide apart and your arms extended straight out beside you. Turn your left foot to 90 degrees and bend your right knee into a lunge, turning your head to the left. Hold and repeat. To do Warrior III, begin in Warrior I pose, move your hands to your heart in a prayer position and lean forward whilst extending your back leg upwards, making sure to keep it straight. Reach your hands forward to a “T position” to complete the pose. Once you’ve built up your strength and paddling skills why not give SUP yoga a go?