Nowadays it seems like children are spending half as much time outside as they did back in my day (20 years ago). I know Scott (age 12) certainly spends much more time doing inside activities – pool, boxing, playstation, YouTube and watching TV. When I was twelve I was always out on an adventure, building forts, playing tip the can or flying around on my bike. This year I want to introduce Scott to some new and exciting outdoor activities. Hopefully one will grab his attention and he may even pick up a new hobby?!
My family and I were recently invited to take part in a morning of SUP’ing with Portrush Suft School. Quoted as “the best family activity provider in Northern Ireland” we simple couldn’t resist the offer. Scott was raring to go and ready to embrace a new outdoor water activity, that he’d never tried before.
I’m no stranger to SUP’ing in Ireland, but I hadn’t been in quite sometime. It doesn’t matter what time of year it is, it’s always a good time to get out and get active. And Portrush Suft School is open all year round, come rain or shine.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
So what is a stand up paddle board? Basically a surfboard with a paddle. However the boards are longer and wider than surfboards. It’s a whole new way to experience the water in the outdoors and requires balance and precise paddling. Both beginners and intermediates are welcome to take on the water based activity. Honestly is doesn’t take long to get the hang of it, you’ll be a SUP’ing superstar in no time.
Learning to SUP
We started our lesson in a sheltered space at Portrush harbour – it was perfect for learning the basics. Standing on an oversized surfboard and holding a single bladed paddle, we skimmed our way through the water while trying not to fall off. You can feel the muscles in your stomach area get to work, it’s an ideal full body core workout. If you naturally have good balance, then you’ll be a pro in no time. It was relatively easy to do as the water was calm so the conditions were perfect for our group. We also had TK, our qualified instructor leading the way and giving direction. We did have a few falls but it was all in the name of family fun.
During our lesson we covered the following steps;
- entering the water safely
- how to hold the paddle
- standing up on your board from kneeling
- keeping your balance on the board (kneeling/standing)
- how to drop down quickly onto your board
- basic paddle techniques including back paddling
- basic turns
- turning 360
Hot Shower Facilities
At the end of the lesson, there was an open invitation for us to jump off the pier, and we did. Our instructor, TK, lead the way with a summer salt style dive into the water. We were soaked from head to toe and in need of hot shower. Thankfully Portrush Suft School have beautiful hot shower facilities available back at the club house. The shower room comes with a seating area, a private bathroom and a number of rain water showers available. The warm water promotes blood flow to your skin, helping you to warm up and relax. I can’t think of a better way to end a SUP’ing session workout.
Portrush Suft School provide all the equipment including wetsuits and buoyancy aids, as part of the session. The cost is £30 per person with a special family rate of £100 for a family of four. Discover the excitement of SUP’ing in Portrush, Co. Antrim this year with your friends and family. Book here.
[…] week I found myself on one Northern Ireland’s most beautiful beaches, for a day of family SUP lessons. I don’t know about you, but SUP’ing makes me incredible hungry. So hungry that […]