Yes. You can say What’s SUP. If you insist. But only once ok?
Stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP, is the latest in local fitness and fun on the water.  Originally out of, where else, Hawaii, it’s pretty much just what is sounds like –  an oversized surfboard and a long paddle are used to cruise along the lake or ocean.  In addition to offering a great way to relax and enjoy the lake, SUP helps increase core strength and improves posture and balance.
Stand-up paddle boarding is something all age groups and fitness levels can enjoy – you can cruise around the lake at a relaxing pace or you can challenge yourself to a full body workout by increasing your speed. It’s a perfect end of summer / early fall thing to do with friends or family.
Believe it or not, the fit & adventurous also incorporate yoga or strength training on the paddle board, making SUP an even better way to get fit while having a lovely time on the lake.
There are several options in the greater Charlotte and Lake Norman area for SUP lessons and rentals. Here are our top picks:
MyAloha Paddle and Surf is located on the water in Cornelius and offers private and group lessons as well as specialty classes such as paddle yoga and nighttime paddle boarding excursions. Every MyAloha instructor has completed an accredited paddle training and fitness program. Private lessons (1.5 hours) are $65 per person for up to 2 people, with an additonal discount for a 3rd person. Group lessons (also 1.5 hours) cost $50 per person and groups range from 4-24 people. Already know what to do? My Aloha also offers paddle board rentals for 1 or 2 hours ($20 or $35).
Moose Paddleboard Company based in Mooresville will travel to you on Lake Norman, Mountain Island Lake and Lake Wylie. Moose Paddleboard company accepts reservations for up to 9 people – 7 adults and 2 children. Individual lessons are $30/hr for 1 person and $55/hr for two. Each additional person is only $10/hr. Moose Paddleboard company also offers half and full day rentals, starting at just $50. Give them a call for all the details.
The Lake Norman YMCAÂ offers SUP lessons. These classes run from April to October and are available to members and non-members for an additional fee. Private classes start at $30 per person and group classes are $80 per four-week session. Class type varies and includes Paddle Fitness. Open Paddle boarding and Yoga.
The US National Whitewater Center in Charlotte offers traditional flatwater paddle boarding lessons as well as Whitewater lessons for those experienced at the sport and looking to take it to the next level. Flatwater lessons start are $45/person (group) and $60 for a private lesson. Whitewater lessons are $80 for a private session and $65 for a group lesson (3 person maximum).
SUP Charlotte offers classes at Lake Norman and Mountain Island lake. They offer traditional classes as well as Paddleboard Yoga and have an extensive selection of paddle boards and SUP equipment. Lessons are available in small groups, semi-private and private and range from $45 to $70 per person.
Hardcore Sports in Mooresville also offers Paddleboard rentals for half-days through weekends, starting at $19.
If you’re on the west side of the Lake, Aquaventure Rentals and Boat Club in Sherrils Ford offers rentals and individual and group lessons starting at $79 for 2 hours.
Are you ready to get on board? Check out these local businesses and please tell them scoop sent you!
