Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has exploded in popularity, attracting thrill-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
From calm lakes to monster waves, SUP athletes are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a board.
You’ll be amazed by the incredible feats these top SUP athletes are achieving in the water. Whether it’s tackling giant swells or competing in grueling long-distance races, these paddlers are redefining the sport and inspiring a new generation of SUP enthusiasts.
Get ready to dive into the world of extreme paddleboarding and meet some of the most talented athletes making waves in the SUP community.
1) Kai Lenny
Kai Lenny is a force to be reckoned with in the world of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
You might know him as the ultimate waterman who thrives on tackling massive waves.
This Maui native isn’t just about SUP – he’s a multi-talented athlete who excels in various water sports.
From big-wave surfing to kiteboarding, Kai’s skills on the water are truly impressive.
What sets Kai apart is his ability to push the limits of SUP.
He’s known for taking on some of the most iconic big wave surf spots like Peahi, also known as Jaws, off the coast of Maui.
Kai’s strategic approach to competitions is noteworthy.
In the Red Bull Heavy Water Race, he brought two 12ft carbon fiber SUP boards to navigate the challenging waves at Ocean Beach and finish under the Golden Gate Bridge.
When he’s not competing, you’ll find Kai surfing big waves alongside other top SUP athletes during the off-season.
His passion for the sport and constant drive to improve make him a true inspiration in the SUP world.
2) Candice Appleby
You’ve probably heard of Candice Appleby if you’re into SUP racing.
She’s a real powerhouse in the sport, and for good reason.
Candice has been crushing it on the water for years, racking up impressive wins left and right.
In 2022, Candice snagged a gold medal at the ISA World Championships in Puerto Rico.
But she didn’t stop there.
She followed that up with a major victory at the Pan American Games in Chile last year.
Talk about a winning streak!
When she’s not dominating races, Candice is busy sharing her skills with others.
She runs her own Ocean Academy, where she coaches aspiring SUP athletes.
It’s pretty cool to see a top athlete giving back to the sport like that.
Candice isn’t just about flat-water racing, though.
She’s got serious skills when it comes to wave riding on her raceboard too.
Her buoy turns are something else – you’ve got to see them to believe it.
With her competitive drive and all-around SUP skills, Candice Appleby is definitely one to watch in the world of stand-up paddleboarding.
Keep an eye out for her at the next big race!
3) Lincoln Dews
Lincoln Dews is a force to be reckoned with in the world of stand-up paddleboarding.
You might know him as the two-time SUP Race World Champion, but there’s more to this Aussie powerhouse than just titles.
Dews comes from a family of watermen, with four generations of ocean lovers behind him.
This heritage shines through in his paddling style and adventurous spirit.
You’ll often find Lincoln pushing the limits of what’s possible on a paddleboard.
He’s not content with just racing on flat water.
Instead, he seeks out extreme challenges that’ll make your heart race just thinking about them.
One of his most daring feats? The Yukon Double.
Imagine tackling two of the longest and most grueling paddling races on the planet back-to-back.
That’s exactly what Lincoln did, proving he’s got the grit to match his skill.
When he’s not competing, you might catch Lincoln [coaching other paddlers](https://www.totalsup.com/news/blackfish-paddles-downwin
4) Fiona Wylde
You might know Fiona Wylde as one of the most versatile water athletes out there.
This Hood River, Oregon native started young, picking up windsurfing at 11 and stand-up paddleboarding at 13.
Fiona’s not just a one-trick pony.
She’s a force to be reckoned with in both SUP racing and surfing.
You’d be impressed by her ability to compete at the highest level in multiple disciplines.
In 2021, Fiona showed everyone what she’s made of.
She snagged double gold at the ICF SUP World Championships, dominating both the sprint and technical races.
But Fiona’s not just about competition.
She’s a globe-trotter too.
At just 18, she’d already traveled to Japan, Europe, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, always with her paddle in hand.
When it comes to waves, Fiona doesn’t back down.
She can take on some of the biggest swells you’ve ever seen.
It’s no wonder she’s considered one of the most well-rounded waterwomen in the world.
5) Connor Baxter
You’ve probably heard of Connor Baxter if you’re into SUP.
This Hawaiian powerhouse has been dominating the sport for years.
Baxter’s not just a one-trick pony.
He’s a master of both sprint and technical races.
At the 2022 ICF SUP World Championships, he snagged two gold medals, proving he’s still at the top of his game.
But wait, there’s more! When he’s not racing, you’ll find Connor tackling massive waves.
He’s part of an elite group of SUP athletes who push the limits in big wave surfing during the off-season.
Connor’s versatility is what sets him apart.
He’s just as comfortable sprinting in choppy conditions as he is navigating treacherous waters in events like the Red Bull Heavy Water race.
Training Regimens of SUP Champions
Elite SUP athletes push their bodies to the limit with intense daily routines and a careful balance of endurance and strength training.
Their dedication and discipline set them apart in this demanding water sport.
Daily Routines for Peak Performance
You’ll find top SUP athletes hitting the water before sunrise.
Many start with a 5 AM paddle session, covering 10-15 miles before breakfast.
After refueling, it’s time for cross-training.
Kai Lenny, a multi-discipline watersports champion, mixes it up with surfing, windsurfing, and foiling.
This variety keeps his skills sharp across the board.
Afternoon workouts often include yoga for flexibility and balance.
You’ll see pros like Connor Baxter doing planks on their boards to boost core strength.
Nutrition is key.
Athletes fuel up with protein-rich meals and stay hydrated throughout their grueling days.
Balancing Endurance and Strength
To excel in SUP racing, you need both stamina and power.
Champs like Bastian Grimm swear by training with faster paddlers in tough conditions to boost performance.
Endurance work includes long-distance paddles and interval training on the water.
You might do 1-minute sprints followed by 2 minutes of steady paddling, repeating for an hour.
For strength, hit the gym.
Focus on compound exercises like squats and pull-ups.
Don’t forget shoulder stability work – it’s crucial for injury prevention.
Many pros use resistance bands attached to their boards for on-water strength training.
This mimics race conditions while building muscle.
Impact of SUP on Health and Lifestyle
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) can transform your physical fitness and mental well-being.
It offers a unique blend of exercise and outdoor adventure that shapes both body and mind.
Physical and Mental Benefits
SUP provides a full-body workout that targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
As you paddle, you’ll engage your core, arms, back, and legs.
This low-impact activity is gentle on your joints while still offering an intense cardiovascular challenge.
You’ll notice improved balance and coordination as you constantly adjust to stay upright on the board.
This skill translates to better stability in your daily life.
The mental benefits of SUP are equally impressive.
Being out on the water can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and mindfulness.
The rhythmic motion of paddling and the connection with nature can be meditative, helping you clear your mind and boost your mood.
Diet and Nutrition Insights
SUP athletes often adopt nutrition habits that support their active lifestyle.
A balanced diet rich in lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats fuels your paddling sessions and aids in recovery.
Hydration is crucial when you’re out on the water.
You might not feel as thirsty, but your body is working hard.
Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your SUP sessions.
Many SUP enthusiasts find themselves naturally gravitating towards whole, unprocessed foods.
These provide sustained energy for long paddling sessions and help maintain optimal body composition.
Consider incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like berries, fatty fish, and leafy greens into your diet.
These can help reduce muscle soreness and speed up recovery after intense paddling workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about the world of SUP athletes and their incredible feats? Let’s dive into some common questions about standout paddleboarders, SUP surfing, and the skills that make these athletes exceptional.
Who are some standout paddleboarders in the scene right now?
You’ve got to keep an eye on Kai Lenny, who’s been making waves in the SUP world.
Candice Appleby is another force to be reckoned with, dominating competitions left and right.
Don’t forget about Lincoln Dews, Fiona Wylde, and Connor Baxter.
These athletes are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a paddleboard.
What’s it like to surf with a SUP, any good?
SUP surfing is a blast! You get a unique perspective on the waves, standing up as you catch them.
It’s like combining the best of surfing and paddling.
The added height gives you a great view of incoming waves, helping you catch them earlier.
Plus, the paddle offers extra stability and maneuverability.
What are the key differences between SUPs and traditional surfboards?
SUPs are generally larger and more buoyant than traditional surfboards.
This extra size makes them easier to balance on, especially in flat water.
The paddle is the biggest difference, allowing you to propel yourself without relying solely on waves.
SUPs also tend to have a different fin setup, optimized for both straight-line paddling and wave riding.
Can you actually catch decent waves on a SUP?
Absolutely! Big-wave standup paddle surfers like Mo Freitas are out there tackling massive swells.
With the right skills, you can catch and ride waves just as well as on a traditional surfboard.
SUPs excel at catching smaller waves too, thanks to their early entry capability.
You’ll be surprised at how versatile they are in different wave conditions.
Are air-filled SUPs any match for solid ones when it comes to catching waves?
Inflatable SUPs have come a long way in recent years.
While solid boards still have an edge in performance, many inflatables can hold their own in the waves.
For casual wave riding, an inflatable SUP can be a great choice.
They’re more portable and often more affordable, making them perfect for beginners or travelers.
What kind of skills do top SUP athletes have that make them awesome?
Top SUP athletes have incredible balance, core strength, and endurance.
They’ve also mastered the art of reading waves and timing their paddle strokes perfectly.
These paddleboard champions also possess great strategic thinking, especially in races.
Their ability to navigate different water conditions and maintain speed is truly impressive.