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Health & Fitness

What the Hell is SUP?

If you've watched TV over the past year, you may have seen celebrities and local news reporters on the water with something that looks like a surfboard.  But, as we all know, Dunham Lake, Kent Lake and even Walden Lake do not get surfable waves.  Flat water IS where it's at for us in these parts! 
Stand Up Paddling (SUP)originated in Michigan right here in Livingston County by myself, when I founded Paddle the Mitten ~SUP Michigan. This sport is an ancient Polynesian way of life. Paddle the Mitten, headquartered in Hartland has been paddling Michigan's lakes for the past 4 years.  My family has lived here since the 1830s, which is the root that brought me back from California.  While Hartland is far from California or Hawaii, the one thing that is the common thread is the water that surrounds us. 
The beautiful lakes in Michigan are some of the best lakes to paddle across the USA. So...when you hear about or see one of those crazy people out on the water with long paddles...you will now understand when they say "SUP". 
My instructors are passionate about the sport and we help clients learn about safety, proper technique and yes, we DO train in the winter! 
SUP (Stand Up Paddling) is the faster growing water sport in the World...come find your Inner Hawaiian!

*note: We are proud to be hosting an upcoming fundraiser for the Fountaine's. Contact us or look on paddlethemitten.com for details. 

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