The Paddle Boarding Workout: Muscles You Engage While Gliding on Water
Paddle boarding is much more than a leisurely day on the water; it’s a fantastic full body workout that engages a variety of muscle groups. Each stroke, shift in balance, and movement contributes to building strength, endurance, and stability. Understanding which muscles are activated during paddle boarding can help you appreciate the physical benefits of this popular water sport. Core Muscles: Your Center of Stability At the heart of paddle boarding is the core, which plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance and stability. The abdominal muscles, including the rectus abdominis and obliques, engage deeply as you paddle. These muscles help to stabilize your body on the board, allowing you to stay upright and balanced, particularly in choppy or rough water conditions. As you rotate your torso to paddle from side to side, the obliques work hard to provide the necessary support. This rotational movement not only improves your paddling efficiency but also strengthens your core over time.