Free demo: The perfect cross-training for all rock climbers

We rock climbers have tried it all – trail running, swimming, thigh-mastering. But when it comes to cross training nothing compares to the new sport of stand-up paddleboarding.

What better way to cross-train the body’s core, arms and legs for something as serious as Mt. Gimli than by balancing on an oversized surfboard and paddling? And this Friday, September 3rd we’ll all have the chance to try paddleboarding for free.

Michelle Stojanowski, co-owner of ROAM Shop, is hosting a free demo day at Lakeside Park in Nelson between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. this Friday. They will have seven different sizes and styles of stand-up paddle boards (SUPs) on hand, including an inflatable model that rolls into a backpack and a Surftech board designed by surfing god and SUP pioneer Laird Hamilton.

Kaslo resident Vero Lalumiere tries SUP on Kootenay Lake for the first time

“Stand-up paddleboarding is amazing exercise,” Michelle says. “You have to use all your leg and core muscles to stabilize the board and your arm, back and shoulder muscles to paddle. But it’s so fun you don’t even notice you’re working out.”

SUP was first introduced in California in 2000 and since then it has become increasingly popular because of its versatility. Whether you’re floating the Slocan River with your dog, cruising on Kootenay Lake or running the rapids near Salmo, SUP boards can do it all. Like surfboards they come in varying lengths and widths and base prices start around $900.

“When we’re not in the mountains or on the rock, we’re hanging out by the hundreds of lakes and rivers we have here in the Kootenays,” says Michelle. “Stand-up paddleboarding is the perfect way to enjoy those rest days and still get some core exercise in.”

Michelle goes on to say she’s heard of people doing yoga and stretching exercise programs while on paddleboards and she is considering offering such courses next summer.

If you’re unable to attend the free demo at Lakeside park this Friday, the paddleboards will be available to rent from ROAM at $25 a day.