Stand up paddle boarding riding a wave of popularity

It was once considered a fringe activity, but sports enthusiasts in Saskatoon say stand up paddle boarding has moved into the mainstream.

"You don't get the looks you used to," Marcus Storey said. "Now everyone knows what it is."

Storey's shop, Escape Sports, sells and rents boards. He told CBC Radio host Leisha Grebinski that the simplicity of the sport is a big part of its growing appeal.

"It's very accessible to people," Storey said. "You don't have to work if you don't want to. You can go lay on the board and suntan the whole time, but there's elements of fitness that a lot of people like."

Storey also teaches stand up paddle boarding. He said first-timers will find the sport relatively easy to learn.

"At first it's a bit intimidating, because you're standing on the water and you're very exposed," Storey said.

"What makes it so empowering when you do get up and get going is that you've kind of conquered something you were maybe a little scared of at first."

Storey said Escape Sports will conduct guided river tours starting in June. He advises paddle boarders to be cautious of the river and carry safety equipment.

"It can be safe if you're smart about it. Having the right gear–a leash is important on this river, a PFD, a whistle," Storey said.

Storey said he became hooked on stand up paddle boarding the first time he tried it. He expects the sport will continue to grow in popularity with all age groups.

"I've seen six year old and 76 year olds," Story said.  "When you're on the board there's nothing except you and the water. There's a playfulness to it."