Virginia Beach, Va. - It’s not officially summer yet, but Tony Pellino of VB Surf Sessionsis already seeing his classes fill up for paddleboard lessons.
He teaches the popular water sport out of Owl Creek in Virginia Beach at Rudee Inlet.
NewsChannel 3's Beverly Kidd asked Pellino why he thinks paddleboarding has become so popular -- the fastest growing water sport, according to the Outdoor Industry Association.
“You can do it in flat water, landlocked places, and the immense health benefits you get from it,” says Tony.
A total body workout!
“Your arms, shoulders, back, of course, your core and your legs,” says Tony.
And it`s a cardio workout too. Pellino says you can burn 700-1,000 calories an hour paddleboarding. That`s more than jogging or spin class.
Not to mention, the fact that just about anyone can do it.
“I’ve taught Navy SEALs, bodybuilders, triathletes, down to mothers, expectant mothers,” says Tony.
He’s also instructed all ages from 5-75. That’s including beach mom, Misty Curtis. This is her second lesson.
“Well it’s nerve-wracking a little. I don't want to fall in,” says Curtis.
“You can do it solo and enjoy it just as much as you can with friends like they are out here,” says Curtis.
Kurt Williams also joined in on the fun. It was his first time on a board.
“He jumped right on it, which shows how easy it can be. He’s in decent shape, he’s bending his knees, he’s looking forward, his feet are wide, he has a nice and stable platform, so his center of gravity is over the center of the board,” says Tony.
“But you don`t know that you’re exercising, that’s the cool thing. You’re coming out here, and you’re enjoying a beautiful day on the water and you’re also getting a workout,” says Kurt.
So you`ve decided you want to paddleboard?
First you need a leash. Then you’ll need a life jacket, but you don`t have to wear it.
You can also opt for one of those inflatables around your waist. Then you’re ready to go!
Let’s hope that you`re on the board more than you’re in the water.
