Alisha Grow

Beyond Resolutions: The Mindset for Long-Term Paddling Success

As the new year begins, it’s easy to get caught up in resolutions—big, bold promises to ourselves that sometimes lose momentum. But what if, instead of setting rigid goals, we focused on something deeper? Long-term success in SUP, like any pursuit, isn’t about quick fixes or fleeting motivation. It’s about cultivating a mindset that sustains you on and off the water.

Embrace Growth Over Perfection

It’s tempting to measure success by milestones—paddling a certain distance, mastering a new stroke, or feeling completely at ease in choppy water. But real progress comes from a growth mindset. Every outing, every challenge, every moment on the board is an opportunity to learn. Some days, conditions might not…

Lessons from Florida: Insights from My Training Camp Experience

Setting goals charts a course for growth and deeper connection. In November, I traveled to Florida to refine my skills and immerse myself in learning. Beyond technical improvement, I gained a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder of the power of continual learning. This journey inspired the Paddle With Purpose series—here’s how it all began.

Why I Signed Up

My main goal in attending this training camp was to refine my paddling stroke and improve overall efficiency and endurance on the water. I’d been working on fine-tuning my stroke mechanics across different paddling disciplines, and was looking to accelerate my progress. Beyond personal performance, I wanted to learn from Seychelle SUP and…

Paddle With Purpose: Setting Inspiring Paddleboarding Goals for the New Year

The New Year is a time for fresh starts and renewed motivation. For us paddlers, it’s the perfect opportunity to set meaningful goals that elevate our skills, deepen our connection to the water, and add excitement to our paddling adventures. This blog kicks off the Paddle With Purpose series, offering practical steps to help you set and achieve SUP goals that will make your year unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you get started setting inspiring paddleboarding goals for the New Year:

1. Reflect on Your Paddleboarding Journey

Before setting new goals, take a moment to reflect on your past paddleboarding experiences:

  • What Have You Accomplished? Think about the milestones you’ve already reached,…

Gearing Up for Winter SUP Adventures: Must-Have Equipment

Winter paddleboarding in the Tri-Cities unlocks a whole new level of adventure—quiet waterways, stunning landscapes, and a chance to experience the Columbia River in its most peaceful state. But with colder temperatures comes the need for proper gear. While our Winter Paddling 101 blog covered essential safety practices, this guide focuses specifically on the must-have equipment to keep you warm, dry, and ready for winter paddling. Italicized words in this blog are weblinks to products or additional articles and information.

1. Dress for the Water, Not Just the Weather

Cold-water paddling requires more than just bundling up—it’s about choosing the right materials to protect against immersion.

  • Drysuit vs. Wetsuit: A drysuit provides full waterproof protection and allows for…

Winter Wildlife in the Tri-Cities: Paddler’s Guide

Winter paddleboarding in the Tri-Cities, WA, offers a front-row seat to the quiet beauty of nature. With fewer people on the waterways, wildlife becomes more visible, making every paddle a rewarding experience. From abundant waterfowl to elusive mammals, winter paddling is an adventure in discovery.

Wildlife You Might Encounter

The winter landscape is alive with activity, and the Columbia River and surrounding waterways host a variety of species. Recent waterfowl surveys from the Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuge highlight a mix of common and rarer sightings, making each outing a chance to observe something special.

Mammals Along the Shore

  • Mink – More commonly spotted than river otters, mink are agile hunters along the shoreline,…

Tri-Cities Waterways: Winter-Friendly Destinations

The Tri-Cities area—Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick—offers paddlers a winter escape with serene waterways and breathtaking views. With fewer crowds and crisp, scenic backdrops, the colder months provide a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of local rivers.

For a safe and rewarding winter paddle, we’re highlighting three top spots: Wade Park, Leslie Groves Park, and Howard Amon Park. These locations were selected for their populated shorelines, sheltered areas, and accessibility while avoiding remote, high-current, or hunting areas. While the Tri-Cities has many amazing paddling spots, some, like Two Rivers Park, the Yakima River, and marinas, tend to freeze in cold temperatures. Choosing the right location ensures a safe and enjoyable paddle.

Wade Park: A…

Winter Paddling 101: Your Guide to Cold-Water Safety

Paddleboarding in winter offers a sense of peace and adventure unlike any other season. The stillness of the water, crisp air, and the chance to witness wildlife in its winter habitat make it an incredible experience. But cold-weather paddling comes with unique challenges, and being prepared is key. This guide covers essential safety tips so you can enjoy winter paddling in the Tri-Cities with confidence.

1. Dress for the Water, Not the Air 

Wearing the right gear is your first line of defense against cold-water immersion. A drysuit is fully waterproof and designed for layering warmth underneath, while a wetsuit insulates by trapping a thin layer of water your body warms. Avoid…

Dive into Our Course Offerings with Aqueous SUP

At Aqueous SUP, we are your go-to hub for all things paddleboarding! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, we’ve got a course tailored just for you. In this blog, we’ll give you the inside scoop on our current course offerings, from foundational skills to advanced techniques and safety training. Let’s dive in!

We’ll start with our progressive courses. They are skill-based and designed to guide you through a comprehensive learning journey, each course building upon the last. You’ll start with gaining a solid foundation of essential skills such as balancing, basic paddle strokes and gear essentials. As you advance, you’ll refine those skills, learn more advanced techniques…

Safety First: Our Commitment to SUP Safety and Education

Hello fellow paddlers, let’s chat about safety and what it means to our company here at Aqueous SUP. We believe that safety is paramount in every paddling activity. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or stepping onto a board for the first time, our dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable experience is unwavering. Here’s a closer look at how we prioritize safety through our protocols, instructor training, and commitment to creating a secure environment for all our paddlers and participants.

Comprehensive Safety Protocols

From the moment you arrive at Aqueous SUP, your safety is our top priority. We meticulously maintain our equipment to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality and functionality….

Behind the Board: Getting to Know the Founder of Aqueous SUP

Welcome back, fellow water enthusiasts! I’m excited to bring you into the fold with an exclusive interview featuring the founder of Aqueous SUP—yours truly. Let’s dive into the origins, aspirations, and personal insights behind Aqueous SUP, a company dedicated to sharing the tranquility, joy, and adventure of paddleboarding with others and our community.

What sparked your passion for paddleboarding, and how did Aqueous SUP come to be?

My passion for SUP ignited years ago when I experienced paddling for the first time on the Columbia River. The tranquility and connection to nature that paddleboarding offered quickly became a cornerstone of my life. I continued learning and growing in the sport until I became…