SUP Science - Is Stand-Up Paddling a Force for Good ?

SUP Science - Is Stand-Up Paddling a Force for Good ?

Author: Simon Hutchinson March 1, 2021 Duration: 1:07:33

This week Simon chats with three stand-up paddlers who are working across the University of Portsmouth, to assess the true benefits of the sport, and also to explore it as a method to improve the marine environment

Professor Alex Ford, Dr Heather Massey and Dr Zoe Saynor have combined with Andy Warner from local SUP brand Fatstick, to form a collaborative team and establish the facts behind the theory of SUP benefits.

In this episode Alex talks about the technology he is exploring with Fatstick to make us all citizen marine biologists, and Heather and Zoe talk about exploring the mental-health and the physical benefits of the 'blue gym'.

For the month of March 2021, the team are concluding a SUP study and we're asking all paddlers from any country to help the team and complete the study here. It takes less than 10 minutes! :)

Alex Ford

Staff profile here

Heather Massey

Heather's Podcast : Humans In Extremes is available on Soundcloud here

Twitter : @H_Massey1979

Staff profile here

Zoe Saynor

Research group Twitter  here 

Personal twitter here 

Staff profile here

Mentioned in this episode:

Paddle UK and ICF World Cup 2026

Book now to take part in 2026's most exciting racing event as the ICF World Cup hits the beautiful waters of Torbay between June 24th and 28th, combining with the PaddleUK Super Festival Book before the end of December 2025 for discounted entry

Paddle UK 2026 World Cup

Coffee And Coast

Our sponsor for this episode is Coffee And Coast. The Dorset based coffee company has a range of delicious roasts available for individual order or on subscription so you never run out of a quality brew. Why not buy a subscription as the gift which keeps on giving!

Visit the Coffee And Coast Website


Hosted by Simon Hutchinson, SUPfm The International Stand Up Paddle Board Podcast is a deep dive into the world of stand-up paddleboarding that goes far beyond basic tips. This isn't just about gear reviews; it's a global conversation for anyone who feels the pull of the water. Each episode connects you with voices from across the SUP community, unpacking everything from practical technique and fitness to the sheer joy of adventure and the unique challenges of disciplines like surfing and down-winding. The discussions are crafted to be genuinely useful, whether you're figuring out your first stroke or planning a multi-day expedition. You'll find honest talk about the issues paddlers face everywhere, all with the core aim of building confidence and stoke. The real mission here is simple: to give you the knowledge and inspiration to spend more time on your board and to continuously evolve your relationship with paddling. Tune in for a podcast that meets you at your skill level and pushes you toward the next horizon, transforming how you think about every session on the water.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

SUPfm  The International Stand Up Paddle Board Podcast
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