SUP is a great way to get outside, exercise, and explore new areas, but, if you suffer from social anxiety it can be difficult to step outside your comfort zone and find your SUP tribe.
Table of Contents
Overcoming Social Anxiety Through Stand Up Paddleboarding
Connecting with Others
One of the great things about SUP is that it is a social activity. Whether you join a local SUP community or attend a SUP event, you will have the opportunity to connect with other paddlers who share your passion for the sport. SUP communities are usually very welcoming and inclusive, making it easy to meet new people and make friends.
Building Confidence
SUP is also a great way to build confidence. When you first start out, it can be challenging, but with practice, you will improve your skills and become more confident in your abilities. This sense of accomplishment can help boost your self-esteem.
SUP Communities for Beginner Paddleboarders
As beginner paddleboarders, it can be challenging to find like-minded individuals to connect with and learn from. That is why joining a SUP community is an excellent way to meet new people, build confidence, and improve your skills on the water.
Local Communities
Local SUP communities are a great way to meet other beginner paddleboarders in your area. I’ve found a local group that I love, it hosts group paddles, races, and social get togethers. To find one near you check out our post on Where to Paddle board near you to find local groups.
There are also loads of groups on Facebook, if you can’t find a local one to start with, try joining an online group and you will probably find that there is someone from your local area to go paddling with.
Virtual Communities
If you are unable to find a local SUP community or prefer to connect with others online, virtual communities are an excellent option. These communities are often hosted on social media platforms, such as Facebook or Instagram, and are open to paddlers from all over the world.
Virtual communities offer a great opportunity to connect with other beginner paddleboarders, share tips and tricks, and ask questions. They also often host virtual events, such as webinars or live Q&A sessions, where you can learn from experienced paddlers and experts in the field.
We’d love it if you joined our new Just Paddle Board Facebook Community! Come and say hello to like minded people
Competitions and Events in Stand Up Paddleboarding
As you progress in your SUP journey, you may want new challenges and opportunities to connect with other paddlers. Competitions and events are a great way to do just that. Here, we’ll explore some of the local and national/international events and competitions available to SUP enthusiasts.
Local Events
Local events are a great way to get involved in the SUP community and meet other paddlers in your area. These events can range from casual meetups to more structured races and competitions. They are often organised by local SUP shops, clubs, and communities.
National and International Competitions
National and international competitions are a great way to challenge yourself and take your SUP skills to the next level. These events attract some of the best paddlers from around the world and offer a chance to compete against them.
Some of the most notable competitions include the ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship, the Standup World Tour, and the Pacific Paddle Games. These events offer a range of disciplines, including racing, surfing, and technical courses.
Attending national and international competitions can be an incredible experience, as you’ll have the chance to watch some of the best paddlers in the world compete. You may also have the opportunity to participate in clinics and workshops led by these paddlers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SUP and how can it help with social anxiety?
SUP stands for Stand Up Paddleboarding, which is a water sport that involves standing on a board and using a paddle to move across the water. SUP can help with social anxiety by providing opportunities to connect with other paddlers who share your passion for the sport, building confidence through skill improvement, and participating in events and competitions.
How do I find a local SUP community?
You can find a local SUP community by checking out our post on Where to Paddle board near you to find local groups or by searching on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram.
What are virtual SUP communities and how can I join them?
Virtual SUP communities are online groups hosted on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram that are open to paddlers from all over the world. You can join them by searching for them on these platforms and requesting to join.
What are some notable SUP competitions and events?
Some notable SUP competitions and events include the ISA World SUP and Paddleboard Championship, the Standup World Tour, and the Pacific Paddle Games. These events offer a range of disciplines, including racing, surfing, and technical courses.
How can SUP competitions and events help me improve my skills?
SUP competitions and events can help you improve your skills by providing opportunities to challenge yourself and learn from experienced paddlers and experts in the field through clinics and workshops.