Just like you, our team at Atoll Boards loves a good workout. While a typical gym can be an optimal place for a traditional workout, it’s not necessarily a one-size-fits-all solution. In other words, some people simply don’t enjoy going to the gym. Or, more specifically, they would rather do something else to hit their health and fitness goals, quotas, etc. While some prefer to go walking, running, cycling, etc, other people can struggle to find a sufficient substitute. For them, we recommend trying out stand-up paddle boarding (SUP-ing) – our number-one favorite form of exercise. As a matter of fact, our team at Atoll Boards genuinely believes that regular SUP-ing can be even better than a gym membership. So, without further ado, keep on reading to learn all about our five reasons why SUP-ing is better than going to the gym.
Read more: Best Advice for New Stand-up Paddle Boarders
The Great Outdoors
First and foremost, in our estimation, the best thing about SUP-ing is being outside. While we do love a good gym session, there’s just no substitute for the great outdoors. Between the fresh air, sunshine, and bountiful beauty, nature is always calling us home. Then, when you factor in all of the included health benefits—such as lower stress levels, improved relaxation, and additional dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin—it’s no wonder why we and so many others love to get outside as much as possible.
SUP-ing is a Genuine Workout
Next, we would like to address one of the biggest misconceptions about SUP-ing. While it may not look like a workout, trust us, it is. SUP-ing is a genuine workout in every possible way. You can burn a ton of calories, exercise basically all of your muscle groups, etc. What’s more, it is extremely customizable, as you can make your SUP experience as easy or difficult as you want.
You Can Choose the Setting of your SUP Session
For starters, you can choose the setting of your SUP session. Whatever you want your surroundings to be—a calm and secluded lake, a roaring ocean with lots of activity, or anywhere in between—you can make them exactly that. And, if for any reason it isn’t what you wanted, you can always move on to another spot and have the SUP adventure that you’ve been dreaming about. Suffice it to say, it isn’t nearly as easy to have such environmental control in a traditional gym setting.
Read more: 10 Reasons Why Paddle Boarding is the Perfect Summer Activity

The Intensity of Your Workout is Completely Up to You
Additionally, the intensity of your workout is completely up to you. If you want to paddle as fast and hard as possible, then go for it! Or, if you want to take it easy and watch the world pass you by, that’s fine, too! Furthermore, if you change your mind halfway through your workout and want to switch paces, the water is a perfect place for it. After all, the only person you need to worry about is yourself.
Go with the Flow
In our experience, a typical gym setting doesn’t allow for the same flexibility, adaptability, and fluidity of an SUP session. You can truly do whatever you want, whenever you want, and in any place you want! And, best of all, you can make changes as much as you want to. Simply put, do whatever feels right to you in the moment; create the experience that will feed your soul the most; and, whatever you want to get out of your day on the water, you can make it so. In short, just like the water beneath your board, go with the flow.
Read more: How to Stay Hydrated While Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Contact Our Team at Atoll Boards
We hope you enjoyed learning more about our five reasons why SUP-ing is better than going to the gym. Need a new board before you cancel your gym membership? We’ve got you covered. Our signature Atoll Boards are made from machine-laminated dual layer PVC, the strongest and lightest material available. As a result, our SUPs are exceptionally lightweight, durable, and versatile. But don’t just take our word for it; take a closer look at our available models, find your perfect fit, and then—if you still have any lingering questions—please feel free to get in touch with us. We would love to assist you in any way we can. To contact our team at Atoll Boards, you can click here, call us at 877-698-8581, or send an email to customerservice@atollboards.com; whatever works best for you. Until then!