Becoming a SUP Pilates Instructor: A New Wave of Wellness

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has taken the fitness world by storm, and one of the newest trends riding the wave is SUP Pilates. But is this combination of exercise just a fleeting fad, or does it have the staying power to become a long-term fixture in the fitness industry?

According to seasoned Pilates instructor Sophy Aykroyd, who has been delivering SUP Pilates sessions for over a decade, this blend of SUP and classical Pilates is more than just a novelty—it’s a deeply rewarding practice that benefits both the body and mind.

What is SUP Pilates?

SUP Pilates is a unique fusion of stand-up paddleboarding and traditional Pilates. Instead of a mat, participants use a large, anchored paddleboard floating on calm water, and the studio is replaced by the serene beauty of nature. Practicing Pilates on water in such a peaceful environment can inspire a sense of calm and significantly impact both physical and mental health.

Aykroyd, who has been a Pilates teacher for over 20 years, explains that she has taken the 34 classical Pilates exercises and modified them to incorporate a little H2O. The challenge of working out on water engages the body's proprioceptors—the sensory receptors responsible for providing the brain with information about body position. This stimulates the major stabilizing muscles, aiding in balance and stability.

The physical benefits of SUP Pilates are numerous, including building core and muscular strength, increasing flexibility, mobility, and alignment. But it's the proximity to water—being in a "Blue Space" like a lake, river, or sea—that enhances mental health by promoting well-being and mindfulness.

Who is SUP Pilates For?

SUP Pilates is enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It offers a comprehensive workout that combines physical activity with mindfulness, helping to manage stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and more.

Being out on the water releases endorphins, the body's "feel-good" hormones, which can lift the mood and provide a sense of calm. The practice also requires participants to focus their minds on the activity, drawing attention away from daily stresses.

Additionally, SUP Pilates fosters social connections, as many friendships have been formed on the water.

The Business Benefits of SUP Pilates

In the competitive fitness industry, offering something unique like SUP Pilates can be a game-changer.

Water wellness activities are gaining traction, and businesses that incorporate such programs can improve client retention, attract new members, and stand out in the crowded fitness market. Clients are always on the lookout for new experiences, and SUP Pilates offers a refreshing alternative to traditional gym workouts.

Pioneering SUP Pilates: Sophy Aykroyd's Journey

Sophy Aykroyd is a qualified Level 3 Pilates instructor with over 20 years of experience teaching mat and equipment Pilates.

Based in southwest London, she has a private client base and specializes in health, fitness, and rehabilitation. Her journey into SUP Pilates began in 2013 when a client invited her to participate in a SUP marathon to raise money for colon cancer.

Hooked after completing the 26-mile paddleboard challenge, she went on to qualify as an Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI) Level 1 SUP Technical Coach and combined her passions for Pilates and paddleboarding to deliver ASI SUP Pilates.

Since 2014, Aykroyd has been leading SUP sessions on the waterways of London and has delivered SUP Pilates at various SUP events and festivals throughout the UK. She has made TV appearances on shows such as "This Morning" and "Loose Women," showcasing her expertise.

Creating SUP Pilates Instructor Standards

Passionate about sharing the benefits of SUP Pilates, Aykroyd teamed up with ASI in 2019 to develop a comprehensive course for teaching Pilates on water.

The ASI two-day course covers all the necessary subjects to teach safe and effective SUP Pilates lessons, recognizing the distinct challenges of leading sessions on water compared to a studio setting.

Why Study to Become a SUP Pilates Instructor?

Tania Nesbitt, CEO of ASI, emphasizes the importance of having properly qualified and educated SUP Pilates instructors. "We see many people delivering SUP Pilates sessions without formal Pilates teaching qualifications or correct SUP ability and knowledge. It's a potential accident waiting to happen," says Nesbitt.

Ensuring safety and effectiveness in this practice involves understanding the dynamics of SUP boards, Pilates stretches, and the natural conditions of the water.

What Experience is Needed?

While you don't need to be an expert paddler to take the SUP Pilates instructor course, you do need to be a qualified Pilates Instructor.  It's beneficial to have paddling experience to feel confident on the water and demonstrate basic paddle techniques and skills.

As water-based activities continue to grow in popularity, the demand for qualified SUP Pilates instructors is likely to increase.

For fitness professionals looking to diversify their offerings and tap into the wellness market, becoming a SUP Pilates instructor could be the perfect opportunity to ride the next wave of fitness innovation.

See ASI’s SUP Pilates Instructor courses

Online and workshop options.

****About ASI****

ASI is an international professional membership and training organisation and governing body for instructors, coaches and schools and clubs in the outdoor recreation industry for surfing, stand up paddle and bodyboarding.

ASI Accredited Schools abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.
Travel the world with ASI.
www.academyofsurfing.com
#ProudToBeASI #ASI_academy #ASIinstructor #ASIschool
#sup #standuppaddle #supinstructor #supcoach  #supschool  #supwise #suppilates