Paddle boarding in Cleveland-You need to check what's SUP!

I've been looking for unique ways to cross train/work out in greater Cleveland. After doing some Googling...I came across SUP Cleveland.

SUP Cleveland gives residents of Northeast Ohio the chance to go paddle boarding. Yes paddleboarding on Lake Erie!

Recently I had the chance to interview SUP Cleveland Founder Jill Jankowski. Jankowski was one of the coolest ladies I've had the chance to talk to in a while. She has such enthusiasm for Cleveland and paddleboarding. She talked about how she came up with the concept for her business, "We wanted to create something that would offer clients a new way to see Cleveland. By coming out on the river they get to be close to/around the city and on the lake at the same time."

Photo credits: SUP Cleveland Website

"We felt very strongly about connecting the city (Cleveland) to the water," Jankowski said, "Yet offer people another way to have fun in Cleveland."

Being that I have never been on a paddle board I asked her about what she hears from her first time clients. People simply love their SUP Cleveland experience. Even first timers that may be a little scared.  "When people are on the water and when they get done we often hear the L word a lot." She explained you don't have to be in tip top shape to paddle board, "Anyone can do this at any physical fitness level. Anyone can stand on the board and propel themselves forward."

Jankowski has appreciated the response SUP Cleveland has gotten from the community and the tourists. "It's been great to see the response," she said.

Thinking about trying paddleboarding? You should consider it as it has a number of important health benefits Jankowski explained, "When you paddle board, almost every muscle is engaged. When you are on the river for 1-2 hours you are using your abs, core and arms. Its a great workout and its also great for the mind/spirit."

SUP Cleveland has classes 3 days a week that incorporate yoga movements into them. I was especially intrigued by the picture below. Wonder if I could do that. Jill says yes I can!

SUP Cleveland is also very family friendly. Read their website for specific info on bringing kids. But they have taken kids out individually on different paddle boarding excursions. They take great pride in making sure everyone that comes out to paddleboard is safe and most of all has an AWESOME experience on the river. These people love what they do and that enthusiasm shines through in their staff and all of the positive feedback I've heard from everyone who has tried paddleboarding. Special thanks to Jill Jankowski. I want to try and get out for an paddleboarding excursion before the season closes this year.
For more on SUP Cleveland and what classes and events they are offering check out their website.