A new year provides an excellent opportunity for a fresh start. Exercise is often included in our resolutions, yet many of us find ourselves lacking motivation after a few short weeks or months. The key is to break up the monotony and to find something you actually enjoy doing.If you've never tried stand up paddle-boarding (SUP), it is a welcomed change from staring at a gym wall and gliding (seemingly forever) on an elliptical. Unlike surfing, you'll be able to stand up pretty much right away, making it accessible to novices.Not only does SUP work virtually every major muscle group in your body (core and legs for stability and your arms, shoulders and back through paddling), it also allows you to disconnect from your phone and switch off. Remember, exercise isn't just about the body, it's about the mind too!There are two great Paddle Board Spots in Miami - SoSUP on Key Biscayne and MiamiBeachPaddleboard on South Beach.Miami Beach PaddleboardMiami Beach Paddleboard offers a "Neon Tour" at sunset which is nothing short of EPIC! Boards are equipped with LED lights that illuminate 5 feet under water and 15 feet around the board, allowing you to see fish below and ensuring you don't lose sight of others once the sun sets.You'll be paddling through Sunset Islands channels where you can scope out some uber-lux homes, and hey, let's face it, we're all a bit nosy!A group tour tends to set a more rigorous pace and your body will certainly feel it the following morning! Groups also provide a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded people with similar interests.For more info, visit: www.miamibeachpaddleboard.com[caption id="attachment_1563" align="alignnone" width="1000"]
SoSUP Key Biscayne[/caption]SoSUPIf you're after tranquility, SoSUP is the place for you. Here you can take out a board without an instructor. But don't worry if it's your first time, the staff will happily provide a brief tutorial so you know which way the paddle faces!You can go at your own pace, taking in the breathtaking turquoise water and white sandy beaches. The water is normally fairly calm and if you're lucky you may spot a manatee or dolphin in the distance.It's a nice solo activity if you need a bit of R&R, or go with a friend and chat while rowing side-by-side; it certainly beats catching up at a sidewalk cafe with cars whizzing by!For more info, visit: www.sosupkeybiscayne.comSo grab a swimsuit and get paddling!
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