7 books that paddlers should read

- Learn about paddleboards, water, and more importantly, yourself!

With so many books available about SUP, selecting the right ones can be overwhelming. This guide offers a diverse collection spanning multiple genres—from mental health and endurance to science and survival, entertainment, and how-to guides. We hope this list will provide you with some engaging reading material for the winter months or for those days when getting out on the water seems just a bit too challenging.

How to Increase Your Stand Up Paddling Performance by Susie Cooney

Known as "the SUP bible," this book is perfect for anyone aiming to enhance their paddling skills. It covers topics like boosting paddle power, improving start speed, sharpening mental focus, creating a personalized SUP program, and refining balance. Susie coaches individuals and athletes worldwide via Skype, and some even travel to train with her on Maui. The book includes numerous step-by-step photographs to help you replicate the exercises as if in a live session. Additionally, it comes with a free downloadable SUP Training Log. Susie notes, "Mental discipline and training your brain for paddling excellence is about belief, not willpower." Whether you're new to SUP or training for an event, she emphasizes the importance of upper body strength and endurance for success and enjoyment in the sport.

IG: @suziecooney

Website: https://suzietrainsmaui.com/

Ignore the Fear by Fiona Quinn

As a complete beginner, Fiona Quinn embarked on a unique adventure: paddleboarding up the west coast of Britain, an 800-mile journey from Land's End to John O'Groats (LEJOG) that she had previously walked and cycled. This book recounts her experiences, from being accompanied by dolphins to paddling 40 miles across the Irish Sea and facing whirlpools. Purchasing the book through her website allows you to get a signed copy or personalize it as a gift.

Fiona@FionaLQuinn.com (https://fionalquinn.com/ignore-the-fear-)

Stand Up Paddling: Flatwater to Surf and Rivers by Rob Casey

With contributions from Dave Kalama, is a comprehensive guide that serves as an essential resource for both beginner and intermediate stand-up paddleboarders. This book is a valuable addition to any paddler's library, providing insights and techniques that span various conditions and environments. It not only equips readers with the skills needed to enjoy paddling in different conditions but also fosters an appreciation for safety and environmental stewardship. Whether you're gliding across a calm lake, navigating a river, or surfing ocean waves, this book provides the insights and techniques necessary for a rewarding paddleboarding experience.

The Art of Stand Up Paddling: A Complete Guide to SUP on Lakes, Rivers, And Oceans by Ben Marcus

This one is an essential resource for anyone interested in exploring the diverse world of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This book provides a thorough overview of the sport, offering insights and guidance for paddlers of all skill levels. By combining practical advice with engaging storytelling and historical context, Marcus offers a holistic view of the sport that inspires paddlers to explore and enjoy the water in all its forms. Whether you're gliding across a serene lake, navigating river currents, or riding ocean waves, this book equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the exciting world of SUP.

How To Read Water by Tristan Gooley

A natural navigator, Tristan shares his expertise, offering insights and tips to help you appreciate the natural environment and uncover the secrets of water bodies. This book is a must-have for those interested in the outdoors, providing over 700 clues about ponds, puddles, rivers, and oceans. Tristan draws from his own pioneering journeys, from wild swimming in Sussex to wayfinding in Oman and exploring the icy mysteries of the Arctic.

Blue Mind by Wallace J. Nichols

This book explores the profound effects water has on our health and well-being. Written by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols, it delves into why we are drawn to water and how it enhances our lives. Combining neuroscience with personal stories from top athletes, scientists, veterans, and artists, "Blue Mind" illustrates how proximity to water can boost performance, increase calm, reduce anxiety, and enhance professional success. It offers a transformative blueprint for a better life on our water-rich planet.

438 Days: An Extraordinary True Story of Survival at Sea by Jonathan Franklin

For those who enjoy stories of adventure, strength, and endurance, this book is a gripping read. It chronicles the harrowing journey of Salvador Alvarenga, who survived 14 months adrift at sea after a storm derailed a fishing trip off the coast of Mexico. Based on extensive interviews with Alvarenga and those involved in his rescue, "438 Days" is an unforgettable exploration of resilience and determination in one of the most remarkable survival stories of modern times.

Conclusion

Although these books share common themes and might seem repetitive at times, their mutual reinforcement and complementary insights, combined with personal experience, allow for a more profound absorption of knowledge.

Paddleboarding is a rewarding and enjoyable sport that offers numerous benefits for both body and mind. Remember to prioritize safety, start with the basics, and gradually build your skills. Whether you're paddling on a tranquil lake, navigating a river, or catching waves in the ocean, paddleboarding provides endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. So grab your board, paddle, and a sense of adventure, and get out on the water!