‘I feel strong and powerful’
Maddy Enoch, 41, from Middlesex, discovered a passion for paddle boarding on her local waterways.
‘Being in or around water has always been soothing and invigorating for me, but I put that down to being a Pisces! I first tried stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) three years ago with my youngest daughter on a lake at a local activity centre. I was hooked from day one, but never imagined it would become such a huge part of my life.
Now, I paddle in all seasons. I am blessed to live near to the non-tidal Thames, the stunning Wey Navigations and Basingstoke Canal, and numerous lakes. Paddle boarding on natural water means you are surrounded by wonder and can get up close to nature without disturbing it. There are shoals of fish, and plants beneath the surface, nesting birds, a gentle breeze and many trees – your body just drinks it all in. I’m transported to a different world that is a great escape from screens, my work as an SEN teacher and busy life as a mum.
Like many hard-working women and mothers, setting aside the time to exercise can seem almost impossible so it’s key to find something you love. I’ve never been very good at going to the gym or for a run. The appeal isn’t there for me. But SUP has made me feel incredibly strong and capable again.
I’m passionate about being proud of the body you have and what it can achieve – an important message when bringing up two girls. SUP uses more muscles in the body than many other physical activities and burns a huge amount of calories. I’ve developed muscle tone and have fantastic upper abs! My arms and shoulders are strong and, despite being incredibly clumsy, I now have a good sense of balance. The real testament to the fitness benefits is that I’ve recently felt strong enough to try SUP racing. I have taken part in GBSUP leisure category events and an Aquapaddle
(like Parkrun for paddle boarders). I would never have thought that I could, but my stamina and resilience have improved dramatically.
SUP has also been a lifeline when my mental health has been poor. In early 2020, my son was very ill and this had a huge impact on my whole family, and I found everything very hard to cope
with. I realised I had to look after myself in order to support others and from that came the need to move my body. On my very first paddle that summer I found my outlet. There have been many times since when myself or friends have needed this “blue therapy” and we’ve paddled and chatted through our worries while reconnecting with nature.
The SUP community far and wide is so friendly and supportive. I am incredibly proud to be the membership secretary for the Paddle Up Club, based in and around Shepperton. It’s high-energy fun and we look out for each other. Everyone is welcomed and valued and we take safety very seriously, hosting regular water safety skills events to equip everyone with the knowledge so we can hit the water and enjoy ourselves. I would encourage anyone to join a local club. I’ve got fitter and gained so much more.’ ✢ @maddys_sup_world/paddleup. co.uk
‘I’m passionate about being proud of the body you have’