Fancy a new kind of padel this summer? Try paddle.
Paddle UK has a suggestion: try a different kind of ‘padel’ altogether - paddle.
Padel has had a brilliant summer so far, but if you’re looking for another way to get outdoors and active, Paddle UK has a suggestion: try a different kind of ‘padel’ altogether - paddle.
With paddling content racking up huge attention online, including over 8.7 million posts on TikTok, Paddle UK is calling on Brits to head to the great outdoors and discover why paddling is becoming one of the UK’s most meaningful ways to move.
The national governing body for paddlesports says it’s simple: while padel gets people moving on the court, paddling gets people moving in nature, and the two make a great pairing for anyone who loves being active outdoors.
From stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking and canoeing, paddling offers a low-cost, low-pressure way to stay active while spending time in nature. Rather than needing a court booking, people can take to Britain’s rivers, canals, lakes and coastlines, getting fresh air, exercise, headspace and a closer connection to the natural world.
Paddle UK provides waterway licences, discounted paddling courses, places to paddle, safety guidance and support for everyone from beginners to elite athletes. Its On the Water membership includes annual access to over 4,500km of waterways to enjoy, making it a practical route into paddling for people who want to get active without the expense of repeated court bookings or club fees.
Rich Ramsdale, Head of Sport and Recreation at Paddle UK said: “Padel has been brilliant for getting people active and outdoors, and we love that. Now we want people to discover the other paddle. The great thing about paddling is that it gives people everything they’re looking for from a summer sport, movement, fun, the great outdoors, social connection and a sense of escape. But it also gives them something more meaningful. You’re not just exercising; you’re getting out into nature, clearing your head and connecting with the blue spaces around you.”
The call comes as more people look for affordable ways to stay active during the cost-of-living squeeze. Paddling can be enjoyed across a wide range of existing outdoor spaces, with the right safety knowledge, equipment and permissions, and often requires little more than access to water and the right kit.
Paddle UK campaigns for fair, shared and open access to clean water, and highlights the threats facing the UK’s blue spaces, including plastic pollution, sewage pollution and climate-related pressures.
Paddle UK also supports paddle cleanups, including the Big Paddle Cleanup, encouraging paddlers to remove litter and take action for healthier waterways. Paddle UK says paddlers are often among the first to see the impact of pollution on rivers, canals, lakes and coastal areas.
The organisation encourages people to try paddling safely this summer through a local club, approved centre, guided session or beginner course such as SUP Ready which comes free with Paddle UK Membership.
To find out more about paddlesports, access routes and beginner-friendly ways to get started, visit: paddleuk.org.uk
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