Trying anything new can feel intimidating initially, especially a water sport like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Maybe you’re worried about falling in, struggling to balance, or simply feeling out of your element. But stepping outside of your comfort zone is where the real adventure begins.
Because paddleboarding isn’t just about standing on a board and paddling — it’s about finding a rhythm, building confidence, and experiencing the outdoors in a whole new way. Whether you’re gliding across a calm lake or exploring Calgary’s waterways, this activity blends movement, mindfulness, and fun.
That’s why we connected with Kerry Lewis, the founder of local Calgary business, Paddle A Board, and a certified paddleboard instructor. From a nervous first-time boarder, to now leading multi-day paddle adventures around Western Canada, Kerry knows firsthand how this activity can transform your time on the water — and now she empowers others to experience the same freedom.
So if you’re curious about paddleboarding, want to improve your skills, or you’re not even sure where to start, tune into our conversation with Kerry for paddleboarding tips, inspiration, and opportunities to take your next step.
How did you get started paddleboarding?
[Kerry] I first tried paddleboarding when I was 17-years-old. Being from South East England, I was always drawn to the outdoors. I grew up with two brothers, so I was always trying to keep up with them, which fuelled my love of being active. I started bodyboarding and surfing from a young age, but paddleboarding didn’t become a real passion until 2020.
During the pandemic, I bought my own board, took lessons, and fell in love with it. I often say that paddleboarding saved my life — it made me feel so alive and peaceful, during such a difficult time.
Being on the water surrounded by nature helps reset my mind. I can be having the worst day, but the moment I step onto a paddleboard, all my troubles fade away. For me, paddleboarding is truly freeing.
Have you noticed any other health benefits since you started?
[Kerry] You bet! Paddleboarding offers a full-body workout, engaging your core, arms, shoulders, and legs for stability. Once you start, you’ll become stronger, improve your balance, and build endurance without being harsh on your joints.
But paddleboarding offers a lot more than just physical benefits — it’s like a moving meditation. Being fully present in each paddle stroke, surrounded by the water’s rhythm, can quiet your mind. For me, this brings a deep sense of peace, reduces stress, and provides clarity.
For the past six years, I’ve been on a journey to challenge my mindset and improve my mental health. Paddleboarding and meditating regularly has made a huge impact on not just my life, but my students, clients, friends and family along the way.
Because paddleboarding connects you — to nature and to yourself. The calm water will help you feel more grounded, centered and aligned with your deeper purpose. It’s more than just a sport — it’s a way to reset and find balance in your life.
What if I’m brand new — where should I start?
[Kerry] Everyone learns at their own pace, so I always say to be patient with yourself, keep trying, and have fun!
First, I’d recommend starting with a lesson or 6-week program. Whether you’re just starting out, want to improve your skills, or even learn how to race, there’s always value in practicing. At Paddle A Board, we offer:
- Beginner-friendly lessons — where I’ll walk you through the basics (like how to stand up, balance, paddle, and get back on your board) so you feel confident and safe.
- Advanced paddle lessons — where you’ll master strokes, maneuvers, and techniques for confident navigation. *Must complete beginner lesson first.
- Basic to Advanced Program — go from novice to seasoned paddleboarder in just 6 weeks, elevating your skills from basic flatwater paddling to advanced techniques.
And the best part is, you don’t need to buy a board or any gear to start. We include rentals with all our lessons and programs, so you can “test the waters” without making a big investment. If you’d rather head out on your own, rent an inflatable paddleboard that’s easy to use and transport (we even offer delivery and pick-up!).
Once you’re ready to go paddling, I recommend starting somewhere calm, like Bowness Lagoon, where we host our Calgary lessons. Or Carburn Park, where we paddle with like-minded adventurers every Tuesday evening during the summer (plus go on some weekend adventures too). Want to join us? It’s called the Calgary Community Paddle Club.
Both of these Calgary destinations are easy to access, and the gentle water helps you find your balance faster. to Curious about more places you can paddleboard within driving distance? Find 13 of our favourite spots in Alberta here.
Where else do you go paddleboarding, and can people join you?
[Kerry] My paddleboarding adventures have taken me all over Alberta (from Waterton to Edmonton), across Canada (Allouette Lake near Vancouver is my favourite), and even internationally, to the UK, Mexico and Costa Rica.
I’m currently planning some exciting SUP + surf adventures for 2026 (coming soon!), but for now, there are a bunch of fun ways we can paddleboard locally together in 2025:
Paddleboarding Mini Adventure In Windermere
Twice this year, you can join me for a mini paddle adventure in BC, exploring the Windermere and Fairmont area. I’ll guide you through serene waters and breathtaking landscapes on a paddleboard — whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer. Plus, we don’t just paddleboard! Your weekend is packed with natural hot springs, zip-lining, hiking, bonfires and more.
These trips are perfect if you want to immerse yourself in nature for a couple of days. There are a few spots left for both weekends in 2025 if you’d like to join — Kelsey and Alex are coming in August!
Women’s Retreat In Fernie This May
Paddleboarding helps women connect with themselves, transform their mindset, and find strength together. I’ve found it incredibly rewarding to share this experience with others, so I’m hosting a women’s retreat called Connect Back To Your Brilliance (Kelsey and her friend are joining me!).
Think of this as a mental reset, where you replace lessons with sessions, each thoughtfully planned to nurture your body, mind and soul — blending physical activity with mindfulness. If this resonates, I’d love for you to join us for this transformational weekend! Come solo, or invite a friend to join you and split the cost.
The Ultimate Paddle Adventure: Calgary To Vancouver
If you want to visit iconic destinations, connect with like-minded people, and explore hidden gems across Western Canada, you won’t want to miss this tour! Travelling between Calgary and Vancouver, you’ll not only paddleboard on 10-12 lakes over 7 days, but you’ll also have time to explore beyond the water. It’s the perfect opportunity to combine paddleboarding and outdoor adventures during the summer months. Find dates, pricing, and more details here.
Paddleboarding sounds SO fun, but I’m nervous… Any tips?
[Kerry] Honestly? The hardest part is showing up. Once you’re on the water, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Everyone comes with a different background, varying levels of experience, and even comfortability on the water.
I’ve worked with dozens of people who initially found paddleboarding intimidating — including people who thought they’d never be able to stand up, or were even afraid of water (read that story here). But I’ve helped hundreds of people just like you push through fear, nerves and anxiety, to calm their minds and truly enjoy their experience.
As a Certified Mindset Mentor, Certified Emotional Intelligence Mentor, Card Reader, Level 3 UK College Diploma Personal Trainer and Advanced Paddle Canada Instructor, trust me when I say… you’re in good hands. Learning how to paddleboard isn’t just a physical challenge, but can be an empowering, transformative experience.
If you worry about falling off your board, I’m here to help! I’ve helped people with anxiety, worry and fear learn how to paddleboard and confidently get back up if and when they fall. That’s why part of every lesson includes teaching you how to get back on — safely and quickly — so you feel fully equipped to paddleboard on your own, when you’re ready.
If you’re even just a little curious, I always say go for it. Paddleboarding is a chance to experience Calgary parks and Alberta lakes from a whole new perspective — you might even surprise yourself with how strong and balanced you are.
Ready For Your Next Paddleboarding Adventure?
Connect with Kerry from Paddle A Board for Calgary lessons, local rentals, weekend retreats, and expert guidance to make your first or next paddleboarding adventure unforgettable!
Now who’s ready to get out on the water? We sure are!
