Progression Technique:SUP & Ski, Snow & Sea

Posted on February 26, 2017 by Water Words

I recently had the absolutely joy of watching the “Progression Project” film Nine of the world’s top SUP surfers hit the waves with Erik Antonson of PaddleWoo. Antonson is responsible for some of the most progressive media in paddlesports, producing free content via his PaddleWoo podcasts and blog posts to help expose and advance the industry. The Progression Project documents nine of the world’s best standup paddle surfers in Costa Rica showcasing the sport in its most progressive form in one groundbreaking SUP film. Left to right in the photo above: Sean Poynter, Caio Vaz, Ian Vaz, Kieran Grant, Fisher Grant, Zane Schweitzer, Giorgio Gomez, Erik Antonson, Mo Freitas and Noa Ginella. (Featured Photo above: Chandler Williams/Modus Photography)

The film is now available at no charge online. Erik explains why he is offering the film for free, “My hope is that by releasing it for free, we get some curious surfers to watch the film and realize there is so much more in paddle surfing than they realize.” A brilliant way to bring understanding and mutual respect out on the water.

The film hit home in so many ways.Let me start with a totally unrelated story – the first chair lift ride of my ski season at Mt Bachelor this year. We were heading up with a snowboarder talking about skiing vs boarding. Since the guy did both, he was balancing his joy in each sport as both different and very good. One statement he made about skiing, just an off-hand comment, changed my entire season.

Just like the guys in the Progression Project film talked about small things they learned from each others style and technique away from competition, the guy shared one insight and it made all the difference for me. He simply said, “I love that feeling in skiing when you initiate a turn with your toe and move to mid-foot, then the turn locks in so easily.”

He might have said more, I don’t know, because that one statement stayed with me. I didn’t think I was much aware of the exact mechanics I engaged when initiating a turn – so many things to think about. But that one statement, stuck and my technique and level of fun on the show has soared this season.

In the “Progression Project” film again and a again each of the water athletes is interviewed and each share what they observe, respect, appreciate and can analyze from the very people they perform against in competition. One small thing, one observation could bump a skill up a level. It was great to experience the camaraderie and fun these elite athletes maintain. The shared respect for each other and for their sport – and the most amazing SUP surfing footage you’ll enjoy again again – make this a unique and special project!

A huge “mahalo” to that guy on the chairlift! And to all the athletes in the Progression Project. I may have even subconsciously picked up a SUP surfing tip, too.

Windsurfing: That Feeling!

Posted on January 16, 2017 by Water Words

There are times when even the most die hard standup paddler wishes the wind wasn’t blowing so hard – on flatwater or on the waves. While there is no way I will trade in my quiver of KIALOA paddles for a sail, I definitely have re-sparked my interest in windsurfing.

Equipment for any level arrives wherever needed

A winter trip to Tampa for a late holiday vacation with my son and granddaughter set up the time and place to experience a windsurfing lesson. I was fortunate to discover North Beach Windsurfing on St Petersburg Beach and owner, Britt, had a lesson slot available.

Before the lesson I had a chat with Britt and learned a few reasons why he was 100% engaged in sharing his expertise – and it all begins with a passion for what he does. Britt graduated from Eckerd College in Florida and had a great collegiate experience on their windsurfing team. After summers enjoying every moment being a windsurf instructor, Britt began to use his degree in economics by starting work with an investment firm.

Talking story before my lesson

He still taught windsurfing on the weekends but it wasn’t until his firm was sold that the door opened for him to re-think his career path. His job didn’t survive the merger and a door opened. It was simple. He loved to teach so why not share what he loved with others – and North Beach Windsurfing was born.

I was not a beginner, but the land lesson was just what I needed to reach toward a better skill base

The day of my lesson dawned clear with light wind, an ideal situation. I had owned a sailboard for a few years back in the early 1980’s. I learned by trial and error, using my sailing skills and surfing balance to have a lot of fun.

I wasn’t 5 minutes into my lesson with Britt before I realized I had never honed any windsurfing technique or actual understanding of the science (basic stuff) behind forces, vectors and levers that can make sail handling way easier than I remembered.

One “aha” moment followed another during the land-based part of the lesson. My natural tendencies to use brute force to lift the sail and hold it during reaches and tacks suddenly seemed ridiculous. With patience and lots of “let’s try that again” Britt led me to discovering the balance and ease of having the mast and sail in the right place.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Soon we were in the water – and to my surprise, Britt jumped right on the board ahead of the sail and continued to talk me through the steps while on the water. Soon afterward it was my time to go solo. I probably had more than 100 hours sailboarding, but this solo venture was totally new. I finally “got” the seeds to a solid understanding of making the sport more fun – and probably much safer for my 67 year old self.

I am already counting the days until my next lesson.

FOLLOW and LIKE North Beach Windsurfing on Facebook

Even though I love everything about SUP – there is a magic in windsurfing that can complement my time time on the water.

Down Wind or Distance Touring: Hydration

Posted on December 22, 2016 by Water Words

I have a collection of hydration packs, bottles, fanny-packs and sometimes I just wedge a waterbottle under the deck straps on my Starboard Astro Touring board. As training, exploring and down wind adventures demand lots of time, sweat and hydration I am always seeking the best solution. I recently tried the Mazama Sidestream: Hydration Waist Pack which holds 1.3 liters of fluid.

I have found that a hydration pack that fits over my shoulders is sometimes awkward while paddling. Adjusting the shoulder and chest straps is helpful, but not always ideal. The first time I used the Mazama Sidestream I noticed that I actually forgot I was wearing it – a good thing!

In order to drink I did need to grab the bite-nozzle and bring it up to my mouth. Even during a race it seems like a quick movement, practically effortless. There is a neoprene holder near the front of the Sidestream. The bite nozzle fits easily and securely into that holder, so the hose/nozzle stays out of the way while paddling and is easily available.

Once you’re done hydrating, you simply let the drink tube recoil back into the pack, and with a quick motion, insert the bite valve into its neoprene holder. Sidestream sits in the small of your back, close to your center-of-gravity for a comfortable, no bounce fit. You stay in balance and your fluid doesn’t slosh.

On the water I like to carry my phone in its waterproof case. There is plenty of room in the Sidestream for my phone, an energy bar and even my car key – but remeber to protect your electronic key from water if you plan to carry it.

AVOID THE TOP 3 NUTRITION MISTAKES MADE BY STAND UP PADDLERS

More training insights from Elder SUP

Hood River Inn: Your Winter Wonderful

Posted on October 7, 2016 by Water Words

You know how it feels when you walk in a place and “everybody knows your name!” Warm, welcoming, friendly and connected. That’s a feeling obvious from check-in to checkout at the Best Western Plus Hood River Inn. The difference, no one actually knows your name, but every member of the team knows how to individualize the welcome and experience just for you. Hood River Inn is an exceptional “home base” for your Fall and Winter adventures.

After checking in and a car ride with a wiggly 2-year-old granddaughter we were ready for some outside play. A short walk along the river in view of incredible Fall colors we came to the shoreline pool. The sparkling blue water is heated year-round so you can swim with a view of Columbia River and Gorge. If that’s not enought there’s both an indoor and an outdoor hot tub. No worries about bare feet in winter, the pool deck is heated in the cooler months.

Fall and winter in Hood River is a perfect reason to book your stay at the Hood River Inn. We recently planned some fun in the area while sipping wine on our third floor deck as the sun set on the Columbia River, turning the Hood River/White Salmon Bridge a burnished gold. The Columbia River Gorge is an 80-mile marvel of moss and waterfall-laden basalt cliffs rising up to 4,000 feet above the mighty Columbia River and this was our day to explore waterfalls, hike and maybe give a try at fly-fishing for steelhead. The choices in Fall and Winter are endless.

Obviously, with Mt Hood rising magnificent on the horizon, winter thoughts turn to snow sports. XC ski, downhill skiing, a visit to the sledding park or cozying by the fire after watching some ski-racing.

Just as available are opportunities to explore via mountain bike or on the hiking trails. Just as much fun is strolling the diverse array of downtown Hood River with shops, restaurants, wine tasting niches seemingly carved from wood, stone and ambiance.

How do you decide? Weather plays into any decision in this outdoor haven of options. You can do what we did – ask at the front desk at the Hood River Inn. We had scored a sunny, cool Fall day and it felt like an “apples and pears” sort of day. What orchards should we try and where should we have lunch? Once we posed the question the ideas came, with energy and smiles. Eventually Ben drew a sketch map, shared some ideas and we were on our way. Was that the end of it – absolutely not.

The next morning as we were heading into the Riverside for breakfast (more on that!) Ben called us over and asked which orchards we liked best and checked out some of our photos. It was a full circle of caring that makes all the difference in a vacation experience.

Even though we’ve stayed at Hood River Inn many times, we had never explored the nearby marina and the walking trail all the way to the Hood River Waterfront Park. Late afternoon one day we mentioned to a member of the staff that we didn’t want to get back in the car and wondered where we might walk, to maybe end up downtown. A few minutes later we walked through the marina, across a very cool walking-suspension bridge, around the event center and right to the heart of the windsurfing/kite-boarding mecca that is Hood River. Wetsuit clad brave souls were soaring and flitting across the water in a spectacle that had us mesmerized, just minutes from the Hood River Inn. We felt absolutely “local.”

Back to breakfast. When you stay at Hood River Inn your day begins with more breakfast choices than you can imagine, all fresh, made to order and included with your stay. Heaters on the deck allowed us comfort and outdoor dining. When we came back for dinner, famished from so much walking and fun, everyone found a favorite thanks to the talent of Chef Mark DeResta. As Hood River Oregon’s only waterfront restaurant, Riverside offers panoramic views of the mighty Columbia River from the dining room and the deck, a definite connection to the uniqueness of the area.

Remember the “everyone knows your name” feeling. It’s absolutely present in the cozy and well-appointed Cebu Lounge. We were lucky to be there on “prime rib night” and enjoyed more value for the yummy than you can imagine. Regular live music creates more of the fun and relaxing atmosphere we all love.

Yes, the top quality attention to detail in every aspect of the fresh and renovated rooms at the Hood River Inn will please you. Even a stroll down any hallway provides Pacific Northwest art as a feast for your eyes. It’s a very special experience.

Take advantage of the uncrowded wonder that is Hood River in Fall and Winter. Immerse yourself in comfort, friendly ambiance and amazing value on so many levels. After all the fun, good night.

Stand on Liquid: Your “Local” Shop That’s Everywhere

Posted on September 7, 2016 by Water Words

soliquid I have walked in to Stand On Liquid (Bend, OR) so many times – always searching for a solution. It’s been UV covers for my Starboard Deluxe Touring Inflatables, advice on fins, help with shipping a board I sold, cool shirts and ding repair to name a few.

The constant is smiles – miles of them – and time to “talk story. The entire team from Mike, to Q, to Shawn to Amanda deliver awesome customer service with efficient expertise. They are out on the water consistently, connecting with our community and sharing the stoke.

Whether you are looking for boards, paddles or any of the hundreds of accessories they carry – give them a call and check out their website. They can be your “local” shop no matter where you live. For a quick intro, take a look at their informative and entertaining blog.

Vintage Surf Shop: Treasure in Treasure Island Florida

Posted on August 6, 2016 by Water Words

Want a trip down memory lane while you are on the Gulf coast of Florida be sure to check out Suncoast Surf Shop in Treasure island. From the moment you pull up to the front door of this sea-blue cottage, smiles, service and surf/SUP boards are everywhere.

I dropped by this week on a blustery morning trying to catch a bit of flatwater training before an approaching storm. In moments I had an 11 ft rental board, paddle and life jacket. The Gulf was choppy and the wind was coming in from the southwest for an upwind paddle for about 40 minutes.

The sleigh ride back to my start point was fast-fun. Some sweet thigh high waves topped off the paddle, great fun in warm water with no wetsuit is always a treat for this Oregonian.

The Suncoast Surf Shop started back in 1966 when no other surf shops existed in the St. Petersburg, Florida area. Owner Joe was going to be an airplane mechanic, only they sent him home to get a haircut, never to return, hence the new job, surf shop owner. Suncoast started with $300, a few surfboards, 12 tee shirts, a bottle of red wine and some surfboard stickers. In the 60s things were a little different.

The icon t-shirt design you see on the left commemorates 50 years of serving the surf community. The design was from a 60s photo of Joe sitting on the front step of the ol’ shop, with a few boards leaning around, and a sign that read: “Surf equip and weird posters.”

Now the lineup of boards inside fill the upstairs loft. Be sure to take your time heading up the stairs. Surf posters and memorabilia fill the walls and a lot of the ceiling. So many surfing legends have passed through the shop it’s tough to name them all.

The welcome mat is always out and there’s always someone to “talk story” with – enjoy!

Power of Presence: SUP and Meditation

Posted on July 14, 2016 by Water Words

As more and more attention is given to the practice of meditation, we come to realize where the magic begins. The power within meditation begins with breath awareness. Have you had that moment in a yoga class when you follow a breath all the way to an open heart – and that still moment at the top – then followed the exhale with full awareness? That’s just one opportunity for the power of presence.

SUP Meditation: Presence on the water

Traditional meditation practiced while seated provides a rich opportunity to calm our mind-body and bring a new mindful presence and balance to life. For those of us who find a sense of meditative calm while on the water, a unique practice called “Power of Presence SUP” or P2SUP can allow us to meditate while enjoying our favorite pasttime.

It’s easy to head out for a paddle and become scatter-brained and defocused. Thoughts of work/relationship/life problems, busy-ness and plans chatter through our mind. With P2SUP guided meditations, anyone can enjoy a mindful and present meditation practice while standup paddling – from the very first session. (Learn more here)

Have you ever started out on a paddle ready for calm and realize you’ve got a monkey-mind along for the ride? The monkey mind bounces around from one thing to another. It is as if we are on an out of control horse, heading to the nearest cliff. Our senses and emotions become reactive, not reflective.

Breathing Meditation: Enjoy a P2SUP experience (give us 15 minutes)

The goal of meditation is to diminish the self into focus and mindfulness so we can be free, compassionate (with ourselves and others) and discover stress-free calm.

SUP has a great effect to calm the mind. Even while paddling our ability to pay attention is sometimes degraded by the fast pace of our modern world. Before a training paddle, or one that is simply being out on the water, taking time to pay attention and practice a p2SUP meditation is the key to this end. Our sport provides us with many opportunities to meditate. p2SUP can be your guide as you develop your own practice over time.

Explore More:

We invite you to Live Presence and Share Presence.

Introduction to P2SUP

Explore, “All SUP is Yoga.”

SUP Stroke Technique with Connor Baxter

Posted on June 3, 2016 by Water Words

This training video was first published Mar 30, 2016 on Robert Stehlik’s BLUE PLANET YouTube channel (Subscribe here)

Thanks to Robert for the interview that led Connor Baxter to discuss lots of aspects on SUP paddle length and stroke technique. The Interview took place at the 2017 Starboard distributor meeting on Maui. (FOLLOW Connor on Facebook)

Robert asked Connor about the new 2017 paddle design that is still under wraps. They discussed paddle length: Connor explained that his paddles are much shorter than when he first started competing. I hope you find something useful about stroke technique. In the video Connor breaks down his unique stroke technique which focuses on using the bigger muscles in the core and legs and less upper body strength for endurance racing.

You will really find the part about loading up and releasing the paddleboard by “porpoising” while sprinting to be interesting (very cool). Last of all Connor talks about choking down on the paddle and leverage.
(From Robert Stehlik) Sorry about the background noise from the breaking waves!

Sunshine on a Rainy Day: SUP Magic

Posted on May 25, 2016 by Water Words

The day before we planned to head off on a 3-day camping trip – a trip with rain predicted at 90% the entire time (and 50 degrees) – I took a yoga class. This was not just any yoga class. It was the noon “Rejuv” taught by the brilliant, cool and gifted Cynthia LaRoche (GrooveYogaBend). As she does so well, Cynthia led us through our restorative poses with wisdom and humor. Somewhere in the midst of it all she said something to the effect, “let what you don’t like be the teacher.” That was not the theme of the class, or even a large part of the message – but that is what resonated for me.

I was going in to three days of camping in the rain with an attitude as bleak as the weather report. For the most part, i do not like rain. Give me those blue sky days any time. I was the prime example of what Sorine Cerin (Wisdom Collection: The Book of Wisdom) said, “Rain drops are not the ones who bring the clouds.”

It was time for me to switch gears, be grateful for the opportunity of three days with friends, in the outdoors and in an incredibly beautiful part of the world. It was time for me to be open, to learn from what I basically did not believe that I liked.

Dana Arcuri says it so well, “The more you are grateful for what you have the more you can live fully in the present.” That is my life journey, so practicing gratefulness and celebrating the present moment whatever it might be became my roadmap for the weekend.

What a gift! In a 43 degree drizzle I dropped my husband and two buddies off to play golf and headed to Clear Lake, OR for a morning of paddling. The experience was beyond expectation (what a truth) and a powerful lesson.

As Louise Erdich said, “I was in love with the whole world and all that lived in its rainy arms.” From the light mist that welcomed my first paddle stroke, to the chilly downpour mid-paddle. Solitude and stillness, lush greens and every imaginable blue created magic.

And guess what. The sun eventually came out!

P2SUP: Paddle with Courage

Posted on May 9, 2016 by Water Words

P2SUP: For any ability, on any board in any body of water

My friend (and amazing Mom and water woman) Shawneen Schweitzer

The first time I heard of “Standup for the CURE” was through a casual conversation with Shawneen Schweitzer – known to most as the cool and big-hearted mother to waterman, Zane Schweitzer. As a two time cancer survivor (15 years for a rare sort of sarcoma and more recently, melanoma) I am always ready to engage with an event that celebrates survivors. Standup for the Cure is amazing, in screening for both breast and skin cancers while providing a powerful, positive event for survivors – with friends and family.

Mediatation induces a relaxation response

Once I realized the group who would be at “Standup for the Cure” I knew that there was something I could share with them. Add to that the amazing P2SUP meditation that Zane Schweitzer inspired (“Paddle Toward Connection”) and I knew exactly what to do. We had a digital album of meditation scripts that could speak to breast cancer survivors, and their friends and family. We had just published, “Paddle with Courage.”

You will be hard pressed to ever feel stressed about Stand Up Paddling. More often, something like paddling on a quiet cove, or next to a pod of wild dolphins is going to induce relaxation, and calm-ness within. Perhaps catching that sweet little wave, and the euphoria that comes along with it after paddling out beyond your favorite break resonates complete relaxation throughout your nervous system. This tells your body: “We are okay. We are moving and feeling good. Endorphins are flowing. It’s okay to let go of stored body fat for energy. This is not a crisis.”

You look forward to feeling mindful and present while standup paddling:

To enhance overall health and wellbeing, we must have things in life to keep us motivated to move. Yet, doing something you love such as Stand up paddling, invokes excitement, enthusiasm and gives you a fresh dose of what I call, “Vitamin P” or “pleasure”. We created the five different “Paddle with Courage” meditations to help anyone to connect to the mindfulness that is healing, to enjoy the power of being present – as we focus our mind on healing, courage and joy.

We have enough stress to deal with in this world. It’s time to choose “meaningful movement”. It’s time to give back to our bodies so that it can respond with overall health and wellness. So, grab your board, grab your paddle and get your dose of “Vitamin P” that will turn that stress into positive healing, and turn that intense feeling into an immense feeling of movement you love. We are your partner in healing and courage – Power of Presence SUP.

Elder SUP

Connecting Across Generations and Oceans

Category Archives: Uncategorized