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Paddle boarding becomes popular in the Basin

There's a new way to get fit in the Permian Basin and you don't need a ball or weights. It's a new wave of fitness called paddle boarding.

MIDLAND, TX (KWES) - There's a new way to get fit in the Permian Basin and you don't need a ball or weights. It's a new wave of fitness called paddle boarding. It's a type of water aerobics that's becoming more popular around the country. It's picked up here in Midland.

"It really started out with people on paddle boards on lakes and people," said Tammy McAlister, COM Aquatics Adult Fitness Program Director. "People began doing yoga on their battle boards and it evolved."

COM Aquatics in Midland just came out with the paddle boarding program a couple months ago. The sport uses a floating fitness mat, where you get on the board and perform exercises like yoga, high intensity cardio or balance work.

"Your central nervous system kicks in and challenges not only your large muscle groups, but all the stabilizers that don't typically work on land and challenge them in a different way," said McAlister.

The sport aims to tone and strengthen your muscles, a well as give your core a good workout. It sounds intense, but you almost forget you're actually exercising.

"Come once and try it, we make it a judgement free zone," said Instructor Ashleigh Partin. "We'll laugh and have a good time. It's hard and I think whether you workout all the time and have a set regimen, or dabble in, its a good way to change up your fitness routine and add something new. It's also a good place to start too."

So whether you're a fitness junkie or wanting to get into shape, you can get there with just a splash away.

If you want to try it out with your friends, your first time is free. There will be a class this Saturday at the COM Aquatics and it's slow paced for anyone who is new to the sport. It starts at 10:15 a.m. but arrive fifteen minutes before and make sure you call ahead of time to reserve your board.

Classes are $46 a month for 1 class per week, $62 a month for 2 classes per week, and $75 a month for three classes that include aquatic exercise classes, lap swimming, specialty and land classes.

You can contact Tammy at COM Aquatics at (432) 684-7755 ext. 108.

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