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Paddling on land – Barball
BY EMILY KING – ELITE PADDLEBOARDER @ EMILYKINGSUP
I’ ve been using Barball for several months now, and it has quickly become one of my go-to training tools.
Design and functionality Barball is a clever hybrid: part gym bar, part SUP paddle trainer. It’ s designed to replicate the paddle stroke on land, with resistance settings that allow you to work on catch points, pivot points, and stroke straightness. The feel of the handle and the resistance ball make the motion surprisingly close to paddling in water.
Training benefits I’ ve found it excellent for building strength, core stability, and paddle-specific technique. A 30-minute session leaves me feeling properly worked, especially when combined with a balance board or yoga blocks. It’ s also great for warming up with squats, lifts, and core rotations before switching into paddle-stroke drills.
Versatility Barball isn’ t just for paddleboarders. It’ s a brilliant all-round fitness tool that delivers an intense core workout. For paddlers, it’ s invaluable on windy or wet days when getting on the water isn’ t an option. It’ s also portable and easy to store; it fits in the car and tucks away in a cupboard.
Coaching applications As a coach, I’ ve found it helpful in classrooms to demonstrate technique before heading on the water, and to help people refine their stroke mechanics on land. In groups, it adds an element of fun and teamwork, as paddlers can even work in synchrony.
Conclusion Barball is a unique and effective addition to SUP training that is trademarked and,‘ patent pending’. It bridges the gap between gym workouts and paddlespecific practice, making it valuable for athletes, coaches, and anyone wanting a challenging core workout. Like all training tools, the benefits depend on the effort you put in, but if you’ re disciplined, it will push your training to the next level. Price: £ 145 – doesn’ t include the Barball bag https:// bar-ball. co. uk