Paddling surfing classes to offer great way to get in shape

Bored with the same old workout? Then head outdoors and try paddle surfing.

Personal trainer Nikki Gregg will offer two-day boot camps in August at the Great Salt Lake in how to achieve fitness using paddle surfboards.

The classes are limited to six participants. The sessions are Aug. 5 and 6 from 7 to 10 a.m. and Aug. 8 and 9 from 7 to 10 a.m. There is also an afternoon session Aug. 8 and 9 from 4 to 7 p.m. The cost is $320 per session, which is for two days in either the morning or afternoon class. The boot camps will be held at Jordanelle Reservoir.

"It will be a phenomenal workout," said Bekka Stone of Utah Paddle Surfing, which is hosting Gregg's visit and the boot camps.

"You work every inch of every muscle in your entire body. It is definitely a full-body workout."

Stone moved to Utah from Miami in January and brought paddle surfing with her. She started a little more than a year ago when friends introduced her to the sport, which helped her overcome a fear of water.

She now rents, sells and teaches others how to use paddle surfboards to get fit and enjoy the outdoors. Stone recommends anyone interested in the boot camps contact Utah Paddle Surfing for a lesson prior to the camps.

"You can learn in one day," she said. "It's very easy, and it will be helpful to have already been on a board in class. Her classes are high endurance, very good workouts."

To register or for more information on lessons or other classes, including yoga on paddle boards, contact Stone at 801-359-SURF or 435-232-1816. Information is also available at www.UtahPaddleSurfing.com

Additionally, the Great Salt Lake Institute of Westminster College will run a summer camp for high school students July 12-14 where students will learn how to do research from atop the stand-up paddle surfboards. For more information about the summer camp, contact the Great Salt Lake Institute at www.westminstercollege.edu/great_salt_lake_institute