The Paddler Magazine Issue 61 Late Summer 2021 | Page 85

WHAT MADE YOU TRAIN TO BECOME A SUPYOGA INSTRUCTOR ?
It combines my two favourite hobbies – yoga and paddle boarding ! It feels like dancing on water as your SUP becomes a floating yoga mat and there is no other experience quite like it . I wanted to share this unique experience with other people and feel so lucky that I get to now do this as my job !
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT SUPYOGA ?
Whether you ’ re a seasoned paddle boarder or experienced yogi , SUPYoga gives a whole new experience on the water as it ’ s a fun way to keep fit , maintain a healthy mind and connect with nature . I have many people attend my SUPYoga classes who have never done yoga or paddle boarding before . I tell them we are all beginners once , this sport is for everyone . I also believe paddle boarding can have a huge positive impact on the mind and body .
WHAT PIECE OF KIT CAN ’ T YOU LIVE WITHOUT ?
I am a big fan of my Gill 25L Dry Cylinder Bag as it means I can bring all my essential items with me on my board whilst keeping them safe and dry . It ’ s important to always go out with water , a first aid kit , sun cream if it ’ s hot day ,
a snack and your phone for safety reasons . This bag keeps everything super dry and easily clips onto the front of my board .
For more information on SUP or to find a SUPYoga class near you , visit www . gopaddling . info
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY ARE THE ESSENTIAL KIT ITEMS YOU NEED FOR SUP ?
Other than the obvious being a paddle board and paddle , it is important to think about safety items like a leash and buoyancy aid . If I am paddling on the sea I like to wear a wetsuit as it keeps me warmer if I fall in . If it is winter I will be in my 5 / 6mm winter wetsuit , Gill Edge boots , and Neoprene Winter Gloves . In the summer I like to wear my Gill Women ’ s Dynamic Long Jane wetsuit . It ’ s sleeveless and only 3mm in thickness making it really comfortable to move in .
Neoprene Winter Gloves – £ 45
Warm and durable , with an exceptional grip thanks to the texture of a Sharkskin palm , the Neoprene Winter Gloves deliver everything you need for keeping warm on the water in the colder months . The insulating , water resistant finish of double-lined neoprene makes them comfortable and malleable so your dexterity isn ’ t affected while performing tasks .
India ’ s top picks :
Dry Cylinder Bag 25L – £ 25
Keep your gear and valuables safe and dry in this 25-litre upright holdall , constructed with PVC tarpaulin for full waterproofing . A practical , fold-down , watertight seal means that no water will come into contact with the items you want to keep dry and protected .
Women ’ s Dynamic Long Jane – £ 75
The Dynamic Long Jane is a versatile , adaptable and insulating suit designed and engineered to perform with you in the water . Using a 4-way stretch fabric and a front zip for easy access and comfort , the 3mm Neoprene offers a protective skin-tight fit .
Pursuit Buoyancy Aid – Adult £ 65 , Junior £ 55
The Pursuit Buoyancy Aid has adjustable shoulders with Neoprene padding for a secure fit . Practical , with a self-draining zippered front pocket and reflective detailing front and back for visibility – the lightweight , minimum bulk design allows full freedom of movement . Available in Orange and Black colour options and in both adult and junior sizes .
Save 15 % off Gill ’ s full priced range with a British Canoeing membership . Visit www . gb . gillmarine . com