Learn to SUP

SUP might be one of the fastest-growing sports on water.

Stand-up paddleboarding is almost like surfing for calm water. You stand up on a floating board and paddle through the water. Plus all the gear you need is a board and paddle!

If you’ve seen SUPers on the water and have been afraid to try it alone, a class can be a good way to get acclimated with the sport and get comfortable on the water. While parks and recreation departments will have various sessions all summer, you can start this weekend with a class on Saturday, May 27 at Explore Park. The class, taught by Roanoke County Parks and Recreation is from 9:30 a.m. to noon and is for anyone over age 13.

It begins with an on-land lesson taught by a certified paddleboard instructor followed by time in the water to practice and hone your paddling skills. Top off the practice sessions with a trip on the river to get a true SUP experience. (Participants must be able to swim.)

All equipment, gear, and instruction included. Learn more and register online (course #52019).

Then you’ll be ready to head out on the water on your own. (Roanoke Mountain Adventures can hook you up with gear rentals.)

This is also a great opportunity to participate in the #100HoursUnplugged challenge and commit to spending 100 hours outside instead of on screens this summer. Learn more and find other ways to tackle the challenge.