Celebrities like Pierce Brosnan, Sting, Cindy Crawford, and Kate Hudson have all been spotted partaking in Stand Up Paddle (SUP) boarding and this simple yet captivating sport lures people from every corner of the globe. SUP can be enjoyed by anyone wherever there's water. It can be as intense or as zen as you want it to be but one thing remains constant, it is great for your body and a wonderful form of exercise.

SUP involves maintaining balance on an unbalanced surface (proceed without that skill and we call that swimming). This constant balance work builds and engages your core muscle groups. The benefits of such a workout are easily transferable to a wide variety of other sports or activities making SUP an incredibly effective cross-training activity.

SUP originated in Hawaii about 40 years ago and was employed by surfing instructors to help manage large groups of surf students. Standing upright on the board gives you a much better view of your surroundings as well as approaching waves. This upright position also affords you a clearer view through the surface of the water as opposed to the slightly distorted view you would get from being seated in a canoe or kayak.

From the beaches of Maui to the shores of California, from inland lakes and reservoirs to exotic lagoons or inlets, SUP is coming on strong. See you on the water!