What Do I Wear?
This is the first question I am asked when someone is tempted to join one of my classes or has got as far as booking. We all want to feel comfortable and not self-conscious which then gives us the confidence to enjoy what we are doing.
We have all seen the pictures on social media of influencers photographed performing a headstand in a tie-side bikini. In my five years of teaching SUP Yoga nobody has ever joined my class in such minimal attire. So do not worry that is not the regular wear in UK SUP Yoga class.
The Hottest Days
As I write this it has been the hottest Saturday of year with temperatures above 30C and during our class today, we might just dip ourselves in the water to cool down. So, I might suggest a swimsuit as I know on the lake on a sweltering day there will be other paddle boarders just dressed in that fashion.
A pair of shorts over the top might give you a little more confidence. Some of my class who regular attend the gym, will wear gym shorts and cropped tops as this is regular exercise gear. If you feel too exposed in such an outfit, then your thinnest leggings and a vest top is good. Whilst not forgetting a hat and a pair of shades.
Warm Days
For most of my classes it is pleasant weather and majority of my students will wear what they would normally wear for their exercise or yoga class. So that could be a pair of leggings and an exercise top.
I do have some yogis who will wear their cropped tops and gym shorts. We tend to be bare footed as we would for a yoga class. When I am paddling boarding, I might wear water shoes / boots, but I find they stick to the board when I am moving into warrior, so I prefer not to wear them for sup yoga.
Start of the Season
When the water is cold, there is a breeze or it is raining, a light waterproof over the top can be a good idea. Equally some students might wear their wet suit. In the past before I became more confident, I used to wear a shortie wet suit with a t-shirt over the top.
I might also wear this if I am practicing some more challenging balances such as my headstand or tree pose when the water has not warmed up. However, you must be careful that you do not get too hot and it is not so tight that you cannot move easily.
Check the Class Instructions.
At festivals (Please read my last article to find out more) you may find that the boards are left anchored in the water as there is not the time for people to be paddling out and then anchoring before beginning the class. In such set-ups you might need to wade out to the boards or swim a couple of strokes.
This is a lovely start to the class, but you might need to wear your swimming costume. In my festival class, I have a little wash basket that my yogis can put a piece of clothing in, so that when we start our class they can put on a dry top if that makes them feel comfortable.
Comfort is Key
As with any exercise class, it is about what you feel comfortable and confident wearing. What you feel easy to move in whilst not feeling self-conscious.
Remembering that the most important thing to wear for a SUP Yoga class is your smile!
All Photos by Paul Ainsworth
