After conducting thorough research of ten different paddle boards, I found the Gili Meno Yoga board to be the best overall.
With over 20 years of kayaking and paddle boarding experience, you can trust Floating Authority to offer expert advice for all your watersport needs, including water yoga!
Compared to the rest of the brands, and after considering all factors, the Gili Meno Yoga board came out on top. Whether you’re a smaller woman or a larger man, you can rest assured this paddle board will allow for the best possible yoga on the water.
Many customers found that the Gili Meno Yoga board was great for beginners.
It ranked high in affordability, stability, and durability, making it the perfect choice for any water yoga enthusiast.
Although now you know who ranks supreme among the best paddle boards for yoga, you probably want to see the other SUPS included on the list. Keep reading to learn more about the best paddle boards for yoga.
Best Paddle Boards for Yoga Review
Are you a yoga enthusiast interested in taking your zen out on the open water? Have you been searching for a quality and affordable paddle board to handle all your intense yoga poses? Here are a variety of top-rated paddle boards for yoga that are on the market today.
Once you find one you like best, you’ll be well on your way to water yoga sessions that will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever life throws at you with peace. Check these awesome boards out with our yoga paddle board reviews:
| SUP | Weight | Max Capacity | Size | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
23 lbs
24 lbs |
450
485 |
10’6” X 35”
11’6” X 35” |
5/5 |
 |
23 lbs | 350 lbs | 10’6″ X 34″ | 5/5 |
 |
26 lbs | 220 lbs | 10’4″ X 34″ | 4.5/5 |
  |
27 lbs | 300 lbs | 10’2″ X 35″ | 4.5/5 |
 |
25 lbs | 400 lbs | 10’6″ X 33″ | 4.5/5 |
 |
39 lbs | 240 lbs | 10’8″ X 34″ | 4.5/5 |
 |
59 lbs | 1100 lbs | 15′ X 54″ | 4/5 |
 |
23 lbs | 285 lbs | 11’2″ X 38″ | 4/5 |
 |
28 lbs | 200 lbs | 10′ X 32″ | 3.5/5 |
 |
39 lbs | 400 lbs | 10’6″ X 35″ | 3.5/5 |
1. Gili Meno Yoga (Best Overall)
Product Features
- Customers choose between 10’6” X 35” or 11’6” X 35”
- Weight: 23 pounds for 10’6” and 24 pounds for 11’6”
- Dual-chamber pump
- Rolling backpack and coil leash
- Fin kit, removable side fins, and rear bungee system
- Three built-in Scotty Mounts for fishing gear and action camera mount with a D-ring
The Gili Meno SUP yoga board features a dual-chamber pump, rolling backpack, coil leash, fin kit, front and rear bungee system, removable side fins, and a carbon rail for added yoga practice support.
It also includes three built-in Scotty Mounts for fishing gear and a sweet action camera mount and D-ring so you can easily capture your moves.
Construction
Both smaller and larger riders can take advantage of all this inflatable board has to offer with two different yoga boards available for purchase – 10’6 or 11’6. It can also support up to 500 pounds.
With dual-layer, fusion laminated PVC material, this board offers military-grade durability that will stand the test of time.
Balance
Many customers have raved about the sturdiness and stability of this board, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The 35” width offers extra room for a wider stance and better balance for yoga practice.
Performance
This board glides through the water effortlessly, thanks to its hybrid shape. It’s a wonderful option for all water conditions and any skill level and offers plenty of space to bring a furry friend along too!
Set-Up
The Gili Meno has a quick and easy setup, especially since it’s inflatable. Pack your board in the included rolling iSUP bag, and you’ll be ready to hit the water. The high-flow dual-chamber pump allows you to inflate your board in between 5 to 10 minutes.
How Does It Compare?
This board offers an insane amount of features, much more than most boards on this list. It’s also among the widest boards.
What Customers Think
Customers have given countless 5-star reviews for this board, claiming it’s the best board on the market and commending its sturdiness, speed, and good looks. It’s effortless to inflate and store, which makes transportation a breeze.
Many beginners have also commented that it was the perfect yoga board to get started.
Pros
- Lightning-fast inflation time
- Military-grade durability
- Exceptional stability
Cons
- Pump does not measure PSI
- Confusing and somewhat vague assembly instructions
- Some customers may find it too expensive
2. Nixy Sports Venice 10’6 (Most Versatile)
Product Features
- 10’6” length and 34” width
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Three-piece carbon fiber hybrid paddle and paddle holder
- Repair kit and dual-chamber triple action hand pump
- 16 D-rings, five action mounts, and three tool-less removable fins
- Premium, heavy-duty, three-wheel traveling backpack and ankle leash
Construction
This yoga board has a lightweight design, weighing 23 pounds and featuring dual layer PVC material and reinforced carbon side rails. It measures 10’6” x 34” x 6 and is made of advanced fusion laminated woven drop stitch technology that can hold a max of 350 pounds.
Balance
The non-slip, soft Nixy traction pad and extra-wide platform allow for increased stability and stiffness.
Performance
This board is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent option for those who want to participate in on-water yoga, fish, or simply cruise around. Although it’s not a fast board, you’ll feel comfortable with the handling and the amount of space.
Set-Up
You can pump up this board to 15 PSI in around six minutes, and deflating it is just as fast. Roll it up and slip it into the Nixy rolling bag, and you’ll be on your way.
How Does It Compare?
This board is the most versatile out of all the ones listed in this article and comes in a good, in-between size.
What Customers Think
Customers state that this board was well-designed down to the smallest of details, and it works wonderfully for people with a variety of interests. The features add convenience, and the stability adds peace of mind.
Pros
- iSUP repair kit included
- Non-slip soft Nixy traction pad
- Extra-wide and extra-long platform
Cons
- Some customers may find this too expensive
- Takes more effort to propel forward
- Lacks good tracking capability
3. NRS Mayra (Best for Accessories)
Product Features
- 10’4” length and 34” width
- Weight: 26 pounds
- Features Axis Technology acrylic stiffener for improved performance
- Higher inflation rate (20 PSI) for excellent sturdiness
- Package includes two removable and interchangeable nylon plastic fins, and four D-rings
- Includes a handy pressure relief valve for accidental over-inflation, a carry bag, a repair kit, and a high-pressure pump
Construction
This 10’4” L x 34” W board features a heavy-duty, military grade PVC drop-stitch design that includes double sidewalls, offering extreme durability for the most adventurous passengers. It also has proprietary Axis Technology, an acrylic stiffener for better performance.
Balance
The deck design was made strategically for yoga poses like the downward dog, which adds extra stability, along with a broader 34” base.
Performance
The sleek shape and smooth foam deck make for an easy and comfortable gliding or posing grip experience. Whether you’re posing or taking laps, the NRS Mayra will consistently deliver.
Set-Up
Setup is similar to other inflatable paddle boards. However, you may need to work a little harder, as it inflates to 20 PSI instead of the average 15.
How Does It Compare?
The NRS Mayra is one of the most expensive boards on this list. It also can’t hold anything past 220 pounds, which is a much smaller capacity than other boards. It also features a pressure relief valve, unlike other boards, and has many more accessories.
What Customers Think
Customers appreciate the intentional design exclusively meant for yoga poses. They enjoy the terrific quality and lightweight construction.
Pros
- Inflates to 20 PSI for super rigid performance
- Double sidewalls for more durability
- Yoga pose design
Cons
- Not suitable for people over 220 pounds
- 3-year retail warranty and 1-year commercial warranty
- Not a great option for those with smaller budgets
4. Board Works Shubu (Best Value)
Product Features
- 10’2” length and 35” width including DFL laminate and drop stitch material
- Multiple D-ring attachments and plenty of storage options
- Three-piece adjustable carbon-fiber paddle
- Roller bag and high-pressure pump with pressure gauge
- FCS II quick connect tri center fin and repair kit
Construction
This board is 10’2” long and 35” wide and can handle up to 300 pounds. The manufacturer used dual fusion laminate (DFL) and high-density drop stitch construction core with internal fibers covered in liquid, military grade PVC for added resiliency from nose to tail.
Balance
The honeycomb deck surface offers additional comfort while enabling better stability, while the 35” deck pad gives ample room for posing.
Performance
This board is designed for beginners and intermediate riders, offering a graceful glide without compromising balance during a yoga routine or maneuverability.
Set-Up
The Board Works Shubu has minimal setup time, involving inflation with the included hand pump.
How Does It Compare?
You get quality accessories and a stable, durable inflatable SUP without paying $1,000 or more, which is excellent for those on a budget who want to enjoy their water yoga time.
What Customers Think
Overall, customers loved the balance and ease of use with this board. It’s also uncluttered on the deck surface to offer the maximum amount of space for workouts.
Pros
- Designed with yoga in mind
- Included front and rear tie-downs for added storage and security
- Durable construction on deck pad
Cons
- Takes a lot of effort to inflate
- Does not include a roller bag
- May be too bulky for smaller users
5. iRocker Cruiser 10’6 (Best for Balance)
Product Features
- 10’6” long, 33” wide, and 6” thick
- Weight: 25 pounds
- Includes an adjustable carbon paddle
- Full throttle, dual-chamber, triple action hand pump
- Three removable fins and a coil leash
- Premium carry bag to hold accessories
Construction
This SUP yoga board is designed with triple-layer composite construction for remarkable durability and rigidity that can hold up to 400 pounds. It has a high-density drop stitch core and dual fusion heat-welded seams.
Balance
The extra-wide tail offers extreme stability that allows the board to sail on any water condition with ease.
Performance
The handling is impeccable (even in giant wakes) and hardly has any drag. The board also proves itself highly stable, making it easy to stand on for the best yoga.
Set-Up
This board takes no time to set up and offers exceptional portability to those who can’t store a hardboard. All you have to do is inflate it with the included pump, and you’ll be ready to go in around eight minutes.
How Does It Compare?
The iRock Cruiser SUP yoga board can hold a substantial amount of weight capacity, making it great for heavier passengers and storing more cargo.
What Customers Think
With a 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon, this board was received very well by customers. The inflation process was quick, and attaching the fins and leash was a breeze.
Pros
- Adjustable and easy-to-store paddle
- Built for all conditions
- Extra-wide design for maximum stability and the best yoga
Cons
- Some customers only received one paddle
- Some customers experienced leaking issues
- Can be challenging to roll up the board and store it in the bag
6. Red Paddle Activ (Premium Pick)
Product Features
- 10’8” long and 34”wide
- Weight: 39 pounds
- Includes twin molded iFins and a Titan II pump
- Also includes an all-terrain, wheeled backpack for easy storage and portability
- Super lightweight construction
Construction
This 10’8” long and 34” wide board is made of military grade PVC material with Red Paddle co-exclusive Tec-Air and MSL technologies to increase stiffness and add extra durability. Its added thickness improves the rigidity.
Balance
This paddle board for yoga is wide and rigid, giving yoga enthusiasts plenty of posing space and balance.
Performance
Keeping your balance is easy with this board, as it offers adequate stiffness, rigidity, and support necessary for your yoga routine or paddle board adventure.
Set-Up
Use the Titan II pump that comes with the package to inflate the board to 22-25 PSI.
How Does It Compare?
This paddle board is on the larger and more expensive side. However, it’s versatile and super light, weighing only 23 pounds.
What Customers Think
Customers believe this product offers great value for the money, as it’s a stable, lightweight, high-quality board with versatile uses.
Pros
- Five-year warranty
- Specifically meant for yoga and Pilates
- Extra thickness prevents water from washing over the board
Cons
- May take longer to pump due to the size
- Only includes 1 D-ring
- Paddle not included
7. Pau Hana Oahu Nui Giant Stand Up Paddle Board (Best for Groups)
Product Features
- 15’ long and 54” wide
- Weight: 59 pounds
- Comes with two paddles, two inflation pumps, and a repair kit.
- Features 11 grab handles, plastic D-rings, and bungee cords
- Large enough to hold several people
Construction
This board is an absolute giant, standing at 15’ long, 54” wide, and 8” thick. It features a robust and drop-stitch core for durability and sturdiness.
Balance
This giant paddle board for yoga is remarkably stable and can not only hold multiple people but plenty of items during the ride.
Performance
This SUP cruises on the waves without even trying. Its large size makes paddling a bit more complicated, but overall it’s a super stable ride.
Set-Up
This beast may appear like it’d take forever to set up, but according to customers, it’s pretty easy and takes about 12 minutes. However, you’ll need an electric inflator to get the job done.
How Does It Compare?
This paddle board for yoga is the largest and most expensive on our list and is designed for more than one person. It also requires an electric inflator.
What Customers Think
Customers looking for a large SUP board for yoga loved this one, saying they appreciated the amount of storage space, the crazy amount of space, how easy it is to inflate, and the ease of tracking and maneuvering.
Pros
- Capable of holding 1,100 pounds
- Can transport several people or animals at a time
- High-quality material and construction
Cons
- May be too big and heavy for some users
- Super high price tag
- Hard to transport for some vehicles
8. StarBoard Vision (Most Durable)
Product Features
- 11’2” length and 38” width
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Includes a convenient backpack, hand pump, straight leash, and hand pump
- Features a porthole that allows passengers to view below the water
- Heat-welded rails for increased durability
Construction
Standing at 11’2” tall and 38” wide, the StarBoard features fusion woven drop stitch technology that keeps the board stiff, solid yet still lightweight enough for easy transport. It also has heat-welded rails to make the board airtight and more durable.
Balance
This board is incredibly stable due to its sheer size and robust construction.
Performance
The StarBoard provides plenty of volume for multiple people with a lightweight design that makes maneuvering easy without sacrificing sturdiness.
Set-Up
The package includes a pump for fast, easy, and comfortable inflation within a matter of minutes.
How Does It Compare?
This product appears to be the most durable out of the rest, including drop stitch construction material and galvanized rails able to withstand anything.
What Customers Think
Customers think the viewing window is a fantastic feature and appreciate the stability of this board. You get what you pay for in durability, as this product will last a while.
Pros
- Galvanized rails offer increases strength
- Large size with ample space for poses
- Unique, built-in viewing panel to look into the depths below
Cons
- May be too big for some users
- Paddle not included
- Slow-moving
9. Advanced Elements Lotus YSUP (Best for Calm Water)
Product Features
- 10’ length, 32” width, and 6” double-layer outer skin
- Weight: 28 pounds
- Includes a convenient duffel bag
- Single action hand pump and gauge
- Removable shoulder strap
Construction
This Lotus YSUP board is 10’ in length and 32” wide, made of 6-inch thick, high-pressure, drop-stitch material. It can hold a maximum of 200 pounds and also includes a double-layer outer skin on its deck pads for increased durability.
Balance
The traction pad on the deck surface allows for a stronger grip and better balance. Although this brand of yoga SUP board offers less width, it still provides adequate stability.
Performance
The simple, lightweight, and compact design of the Lotus SUP board allows it to sail on lakes, rivers, and oceans and offer a stable and comfortable yoga session on the deck pad.
Set-Up
To set up this board, all you have to do is unroll it and pump it up to max capacity.
How Does It Compare?
The Lotus Yoga stand up paddle board is much narrower than other boards on the market and may be better suited for more advanced yogis in peak 10. It doesn’t offer as many accessories as other stand up paddle boards on this list.
What Customers Think
Customers say this board is great for touring and yoga on various bodies of water. It’s easy to transport, maneuver, and store, thanks to its size and the convenient shoulder strap.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight design designed for yoga
- Convenient, removable shoulder strap
Cons
- Narrow width
- Can only hold a maximum of 200 pounds
- Doesn’t include cargo tie-downs
10. Abrazo Namaste (Most Affordable)
Product Features
- 10’6” length and 35” width with soft grip yoga mat deck
- Weight: 39 pounds
- Ergonomic shoulder strap for optimal portability
- One Abrazo paddle
- Coiled leash and backpack
- Pump
Construction
This 10’6” feet long, 35-inch wide board is the perfect balance of soft and sturdy. It has an anti-slip deck pad or maximum grip during poses and features a puncture-proof, three-layer hull. The super reinforced composite drop stitch construction material offers military grade material and durability, and its UV-resistant coating makes for a more comfortable, cooler yoga experience.
Balance
The no-slip yoga mat deck gives passengers a firm grip no matter the pose, while the extra-wide design allows for a wider stance for stability.
Performance
It features a paddling maneuverability hull, complete with a triple bottom panel fin system for effortless steering. With this board, you’ll feel like a sea creature skimming along the surface of the water.
Set-Up
Inflating and deflating is quick and easy with the included pump.
How Does It Compare?
This board is the only one on the list that offers buddy straps, making it an excellent choice if you’re wanting to do yoga with a friend or participate in a class.
What Customers Think
Customers were pleased after buying this board and appreciated its looks and comfortability. They also indicated that its wide deck pad area gives them plenty of space to pose, and the yoga paddleboard center handle stays out of the way during your yoga on the water.
Pros
- Easy buddy straps to attach to other boards
- Extra-wide deck pad with a downward dog strap
- High-density non-slip EVA yoga mat
Cons
- Lacks speed
- Larger design adds bulk during transport
- May be harder to maneuver due to the large size
How to Choose a Great Yoga Paddle Board That Suits You
Once you get a taste of SUP yoga, you’ll want to do it every time you get the chance. It’s such a fun, unique, and fulfilling experience that we know you’ll fall in love with it immediately.
Your amazing first time may even encourage you to trash your standard yoga mat and splurge on a cool new SUP as soon as you can get your hands on one.
Once you’re ready to start looking for a yoga iSUP, you’ll want to begin considering a few things. Continue reading as we walk you through some factors to think about before going all-in on a shiny SUP.
Balance
You don’t want to be out in the middle of a lake on a flimsy board, especially since you’ll be standing and performing different yoga poses. The last thing you want to do is fall in because you lost your balance!
Yoga poses require you to hold your balance for an extended amount of time. So, you’ll need something capable of holding your weight capacity and that can offer extreme stability.
Muscle memory is also vital in yoga, and having proper stability will allow your body to grow accustomed to the surface fluctuations involved in water. Remember to give yourself some time to adjust and grow your sea legs!
Wide Planing Hull
Paddle board shapes can come in two different designs: a planing hull or a displacement hull.
The best hull for stability is the planing hull, which is the wider, flatter shape that floats on top of the surface and offers better balance and versatility. This hull is seen mainly on surfboards, giving them the ability to stabilize themselves while riding.
On the other hand, a displacement hull is a V-shape that allows the boat to go faster, slicing through the waves. However, this design sacrifices stability for its speed capabilities and is better suited for fitness paddling and racing.
Inflatable or Hardboard
One thing you’ll need to ask yourself is whether you want an inflatable or hardboard paddle board. Both types are quality choices but depend heavily on your specific preferences. Most of it comes down to your storage and transportation needs.
An inflatable paddle board offers many benefits; it can easily be transported in a backpack for on-the-go use, it’s cheaper, more lightweight, provides a softer surface, and it’s straightforward to store when you’re not using it.
On the other hand, a hardboard offers a distinct set of benefits and yoga mats. It may provide better performance and stability, is better suited for wind, won’t deflate on you, and can be transported semi-easily if you have the proper rack on your car.
Board Volume and Weight Limit
If your board doesn’t displace the right amount of water for your weight, you’ll feel unsteady. Board volume and weight capacity play an integral role in your overall stability. These two factors are impacted by the thickness, length, and width of your paddle board.
Volume is measured in liters and tells you how much the board will float when weight is added to it—the more volume, the more weight the board can support.
Your weight is also crucial to consider, as you don’t want to be too big for your board. This is measured in pounds. When searching for a SUP, consider the total weight you’ll be adding to the board, including yourself and any gear or equipment you plan to bring along, and then compare that to what’s listed on the board you’re thinking about buying.
Dimensions
Your SUP’s length and width play a vital role in how your paddle board handles. A general rule of thumb is that longer boards offer faster speeds while shorter boards are easier to maneuver. The wider the board, the more stability you’ll have.
Paddle boards come in a variety of sizes, from under 10’ to over 12’6” long and around 25” to 36” wide. Medium-sized boards are typically recommended for SUP yoga, as they meet in the middle when it comes to size, offering adequate stability without being oversized and bulky.
When it comes time to choose the length and width of your board, it’s wise to consider the relationship between the dimensions and the volume and weight capacity.
The longer and wider the board means there’s more material, which will increase the volume and weight, making it increasingly stable yet harder to paddle.
Consider your body size (small person = small board; large person = large board), ability level (extra width for beginners), and the type of activities you’ll be doing to determine the best board dimensions for you.
Versatility
It’s always good to consider what other uses your board could have. After all, you might not always want to do paddle board yoga; maybe you want to paddle around a local lake and take in the views without posing. Overall, a good investment always has multiple uses.
It’s always nice to switch things up every once in a while. When you’re looking to purchase a SUP, we highly suggest examining its versatility.
Do you get bored easily? Do you love trying new things? A good stand-up paddle board will allow you to try touring, racing through the waves, or simply doing a few yoga SUP moves as you enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Beginner SUP Yoga Tips
The SUP world can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out.
You’re probably used to doing your yoga on dry land that doesn’t move beneath you, so thinking of being on water may be intimidating at first. But don’t let fear stop you from the adventure and fun of paddle board yoga!
If you’re serious about switching your activity to water, you’ll want to make sure you understand a few things.
This is why we’ve compiled a list of helpful tips for the amateurs so you can start out on the right foot. Here are some of the best SUP for yoga tips:
Find a Good Teacher
Having a great teacher in school can sometimes be the difference between success and failure. And just like your high school algebra class, it’s essential to find a good teacher to show you the ropes when it comes to yoga SUP!
Whether you’re entirely new to yoga paddleboards (or yoga for that matter) or you’ve been doing it for a while now, there are always lessons to be learned.
Reach out to someone you know, like a friend or family member, or do a quick internet search to see if anyone in your area gives lessons. You might be surprised at how popular paddleboarding is becoming and may find a class or two!
Get the Right Accessories
There’s no doubting the importance of having a high-quality board, but did you think of the accessories? These items are just as important as the board itself.
Some of the most must-have accessories include:
Paddle
You won’t be able to go anywhere without this accessory! Make sure you purchase the right paddle for yourself. Consider the length, type of material, blade size, and blade offset when buying a paddle. You don’t want to be stuck with something that doesn’t fit your body or your needs.
When it comes to length, try to add around 8-12 inches onto your height and select a paddle that size. This will usually give you a comfortable size. You can also choose between adjustable-length paddles (you can change the length) and fixed-length paddles (the lengths are set).
The paddle material also matters, and they can come in carbon and fiberglass or aluminum and plastic. Overall, the lighter the paddle, the easier it will be to handle.
As for your blade, you’ll want to look for something that fits your size, so the larger you are, the larger your blade should be. Smaller blades will move less water in more strokes, but you can put in minimal effort. Larger blades will move more water in fewer strokes but will require some strength.
The blade offset is the degree of the blade’s angle. This determines how much power you’ll get (but it’s certainly more of a detail for those who like to experiment). In general, you’ll want to look for 10 degrees.
Deck Bag
If you’re bringing other things along with you for the ride, you need a safe place to store them. A deck bag gives you that storage and keeps your belongings from getting wet.
When you’re looking for the right deck bag, think about how many items you’re carrying with you and their weight, if the bag or your board has an attachment, or if you need a storage bag with insulation for food or beverages.
Anchor Kit
An anchor will keep your inflatable stand up paddle board from drifting around while you’re posing (that could get annoying). A solid anchor will range between 3-10 pounds, depending on your weight and the size of your board. Usually, 8-10 pounds work well for most people.
Belt Personal Floatation Device (PFD)
Safety is always the best policy. Whenever you’re participating in any sort of water sport, you’ll want to wear a life jacket. You can find some great belt-style PFD’s that will give you peace of mind as a paddler.
SUP Leash
A SUP leash is a helpful safety device that attaches you to your yogi paddle board (similar to a surfboard leash). This device will ensure that you won’t lose your board if you happen to fall into the water.
You can buy either a straight SUP leash or a coiled leash, depending on what you prefer. A straight leash has no coils, is less likely to tangle, and is usually used by surfers and river paddlers. A coiled leash is the recommended option for flatwater paddling.
When you’re looking for a leash, it’s wise to consider the length. Typically, you’ll want to get one that’s around 12 inches longer than your board. You’ll also want to decide if you want an ankle or calf attachment or break-away feature.
Storage Containers or Racks
Depending on if you use an inflatable board or hardboard, you’ll want to have the proper storage container and method of transportation. For hardboard SUPs, you’ll need a storage rack on top of your car or a truck.
For inflatable SUP boards, you’ll have a lot less to worry about. You’ll just need a backpack, oh, and don’t forget a portable air pump, a water-proof phone case, and your yoga pants!
Find a Sheltered Area or Bay
The location you choose is crucial. You need a safe spot that’s easy to access, preferably with people nearby (in case of emergencies). It’s also wise to pick an area with limits on the number of motor vehicles and minimal wind. It’s advised to go during the early morning, as it’s usually the calmest part of the day.
Practice Intentionally
It’s true what they say; practice really does make perfect! The more you practice, the better you’ll get. And it’s not just getting out on the water; it’s intentionally practicing specific movements and getting your body accustomed to the different environment.
Make a practice schedule for SUP activities and stick to it. Whether it’s once a day or once a week, find a time that works for you. You’ll be shocked to see how much you improve.
Observe Your Movements
Pay attention to how your body is moving, and take notes as you go. Are you overcompensating in your legs for a specific pose? Consider why you’re doing that, and try to concentrate on altering bodily motions as necessary to avoid soreness, injury, etc.
Listen to Your Body
You may discover that some of your usual yoga poses are much more difficult or painful when you try them out on the water. If this happens, stop the pose immediately and reset. Don’t discount what your body is telling you.
Maintain Two Points of Contact
It’s always good to start slowly and work your way up. Do this by always maintaining two points of contact on your board as you’re posing. Try to avoid one-limb poses, as they are more dangerous and are much more challenging on a paddle board.
Keep a Wide Stance
Being on the water is already hard enough. Don’t make it more difficult than it already is with a narrow stance. A wider stance will give you more stability and better balance. Try to aim for hip’s width distance for maximum steadiness.
Final Thoughts on Yoga Paddle Boards
And that’s all the boards on our best paddle boards for yoga list, folks, and the Gili Meno is our reigning champion. Now that you’ve seen all the best paddle board options available to you, you can start comparing your favorite yoga SUP boards and see what would work for you.
Make sure to consider the helpful tips for beginners as provided above and be on the lookout for specific characteristics of quality yoga paddle boards. Start searching online today through Amazon and other water sports equipment retailers to find high-quality yoga boards!
