Novi Offers Stand Up Paddleboarding Classes This Summer

Like many Michigan natives, Linda Brown has always loved the water. While living in California, she took up surfing, and dearly missed it when she moved back to Michigan three years ago. 

So she decided to bring surfing to Michigan. Brown has started her own business called Paddle the Mitten, in which she teaches classes in Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) at several locations around the state. This summer, she brings her classes to in Novi.

SUP is done on a board similar to that of a surfboard, but with a design to make it more stable and better at cutting through waves. Participants stand up on the board in calm water and use long paddles to push their way along.

The city is offering several different types of one-time classes for those interested in giving it a try.

Brown said that anyone ages 8-80 can handle the sport.

“People are unsure of it, but once they see how stable the boards are when I demonstrate it, they always say they look way more stable,” she said.

She said people don't often fall in the water — only when they mess around.

“In Novi, we're gearing the classes to be family-oriented and for older residents, so nothing too crazy or anything,” Brown said.  “I’m excited about working down here.”

Brown said the sport is a low-impact physical activity and that it helped her overcome her rheumatoid arthritis. She also thinks the sport is great for socializing and a family outing.

When her students are weary about going out on the water, she just tells them her late father's favorite saying: "I'd rather wear out then rust out."

And that gives them the extra push to go out for the adventure.

Novi Classes

Beginner Class: Learn about the equipment, safety, the “how-to’s” of maneuvering, and the added benefits to your health and wellness. You will experience wildlife and the beauty of Michigan in a different way!

Family Class-Parents, Children and Grandchildren: This class is designed to accommodate grandparents or parents who would like to have their child with them on one board or older children (10+) who wish to handle their own board. This class introduces SUP water safety; use of equipment and the many ways that you can add SUPing to your family fun. Our instructor specializes in teaching children about SUPing and nature.

SUPilates/Yoga: This class is tailored for those 50+, people with arthritis or other medical concerns or individuals just seriously in need of stress relief. Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) provide the perfect mat area to practice the ancient art of yoga combined with the non-traditional Pilates. The balance and concentration component will give you a sense of accomplishment in concert with relaxation and the energy found being on water. The beginner class is a pre-requisite for safety. All children (17 or younger) MUST be accompanied by a parent of guardian.

Class dates are as follows:

Cost is $40 per person per board for Novi residents or $48 for non-residents. There is no cost to have a child ride on a board with you in a family class, but you should call the city to let them know when you register. Children ages 10 and older can usually handle paddling their own board, Brown said. Families should also provide their own life jackets for children. Participants should wear anything comfortable that they don't mind getting wet and will be barefoot. Brown recommends bringing drinking water and sunscreen.

Participants must register at least four days before the class and can do so on the city website. Class sizes are limited. Paddleboards are provided and included in the fee. Classes are 1 hour and 20 minutes. It is at the instructor’s discretion that classes may be called due to weather. For more information call Novi Senior Center Recreation Programmer Tori Heglin at 248-347-0422.