Stand Up on Plymouth Lakes with MN Surf Co.

Stand-up paddle boarding is for you: yes, you. Regardless of your age, fitness type or level of comfort in the water, you can enjoy—and succeed at—paddle boarding. As its name suggests, in stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), the participant stands on a board, much like a surfer would. But unlike first-time surfers, paddle boarders are almost instantly successful. The sport has enthralled all ages and fitness levels because it is simple, surprisingly easy and very rewarding. Minnesota native Evan Lawrence was first introduced to SUP when he was living in Maui. He immediately recognized that the sport was fun, versatile and accessible, and he thought it would be “a perfect fit” in the land of 10,000 lakes, he says. And so, four short years ago, MN Surf Co. was born. With storefronts in Plymouth and Nisswa, MN Surf Co. is dedicated to sharing the paddle board passion with Minnesotans. If you are looking to give SUP a try this summer, Lawrence has a few tips that will help you get up and stay up on Plymouth lakes. Buy the right board. “[Boards] come in various sizes and construction, and knowing the difference in materials means getting a board that will last over one that won’t,” Lawrence says. “I always tell our customers that you get what you pay for. A paddle board purchase should last a lifetime so don't go cheap or you'll be upgrading faster than you want.” In addition, keep in mind the size of board should reflect the size of the person who intends to use it. A bigger person will require a bigger board. Lawrence also suggests that would-be board owners purchase a model with a carrying handle, as this will make transporting the board from car to lake much easier. Know board basics. Although paddle boarding is simple by a nature—it only requires a board and a paddle—boarders still benefit from lessons. Lawrence says he often sees new paddle boarders misusing their paddle. “The paddles have an angled blade and most people paddle with the blade turned the wrong way,” he says. “The angle should go forward towards the front of the board. I see people who have purchased boards from either a big-box store or an out-of-state retailer, and they are given no instruction on the equipment and are somewhat clueless with what they are doing out there.” At MN Surf Co., customers receive free lessons with every board purchase; lessons are available at many lakes across the state. Check out the local lakes. Lawrence says that Plymouth offers an array of lakes and channels perfect for first-time boarders. He suggests finding the non-windy side of a smaller bay, and he says mornings are preferable because they tend to be less breezy. You can also check out any of Lake Minnetonka’s smaller bays or channels, as they are smaller bodies of water with less boat traffic. Enjoy the ride. “The sense of independence” is the strength of SUP, Lawrence says. “Being out there by yourself, especially when you’re uncomfortable with the water, builds confidence.” Lawrence also says the serenity and simplicity of the sport draws people to it. “A kayak or a canoe is one-dimensional, but with paddle boarding, you can do a whole lot more,” he says. He points out that in addition to simply paddling the board, which is a great core workout all by itself, many people have done full workouts while on their board, including yoga, sit ups and push ups. Plus a ride on a paddle board is a lot more interesting than a workout in a gym. “[Paddle boarding] is a different view,” Lawrence says. “You can see down in the water. You’re a lot more engaged.” &Learn more about MN Surf Co. and stand-up paddle boarding at mnsurf.com.