eXplore Sammamish

Located on the calm waters of Beaver Lake in Sammamish, the PaddleFlow® experience offers a refreshing approach to wellness that combines the ancient practice of yoga, the controlled movements of Pilates, and the adventure of stand-up paddleboarding. This unique holistic fitness journey invites participants of all skill levels to connect with nature while enhancing their physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or completely new to water sports, PaddleFlow® provides an accessible yet challenging experience that rejuvenates the body and calms the mind.

Preparing for Your PaddleFlow® Adventure: What to Bring and Expect

To make the most of your PaddleFlow® experience at Beaver Lake, proper preparation is essential. Pack a towel for after your session and dress in weather-appropriate clothing that allows for comfortable movement. Layering is highly recommended, as temperatures on the water can differ significantly from those on shore. Quick-dry athletic wear works best, and don’t forget sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly a hat. Consider bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated and a small, waterproof bag for personal items, such as car keys or your phone. However, it’s best to leave valuables secured in your vehicle.

You’ll want to arrive at the Beaver Lake Boat Launch at least 10 minutes before your scheduled class time. This early arrival allows you to check in with your instructor, complete any necessary paperwork, and get mentally prepared for your experience. The launch area is easily accessible with parking nearby, making it convenient for participants. Upon arrival, your PaddleFlow® instructor will greet you and guide you through the process of getting on the water, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident before departing from shore.

When it comes to equipment for your PaddleFlow® adventure, you have flexible options to suit your needs. If you already own a stand-up paddleboard, paddle, and personal flotation device, you can bring your own equipment and register for the “Bringing Equipment” option, which costs $30 for a single drop-in session or $100 for a four-class pass. This option is perfect for experienced paddleboarders who have invested in their own gear and are comfortable using it during the class.

For those who need equipment, Paddling Yogini provides everything necessary for a successful session on the water. The “Need Equipment” option costs $40 for a single drop-in or $140 for a four-class pass, including a paddleboard, paddle, and personal flotation device. This rental option makes the experience accessible to newcomers or occasional participants who don’t own specialized gear. The quality equipment is well-maintained and suitable for practitioners of all levels, allowing you to focus entirely on your practice without worrying about gear logistics.

Before starting your PaddleFlow® journey, there are several important requirements to keep in mind. Registration must be completed at least three hours in advance of the class to ensure proper preparation and equipment availability. This booking helps the instructors prepare the right number of boards and accessories while allowing time to communicate any weather-related changes if necessary. The booking process is straightforward and can be completed online through the Paddling Yogini website.

Participants should feel comfortable in open water and be able to tread water in case of falling in, though this rarely happens during the anchored portion of class. While no prior stand-up paddleboarding experience is required, beginners may benefit from booking a private session first to build confidence and basic skills. All participants must be at least 12 years of age, making this a potential family activity for those with older children or teenagers. Remember that classes run weather permitting, so occasional rescheduling may occur for safety reasons.

The PaddleFlow® Experience: Your Journey to Holistic Wellness

PaddleFlow® represents an innovative approach to wellness that harmoniously blends three powerful disciplines: yoga, Pilates, and stand-up paddleboarding. This practice takes familiar poses and exercises from land-based routines and transforms them through the dynamic element of water. The natural instability of a floating paddleboard intensifies each movement, requiring greater focus and engagement of stabilizing muscles. As you flow through sequences, the gentle rocking of your board with the water’s natural rhythm creates a meditative quality that’s difficult to replicate in a traditional studio environment.

What makes PaddleFlow® truly special is how it connects participants with nature while challenging their bodies. The practice invites you to respond to the changing surface beneath you, creating a mindful awareness that anchors you firmly in the present moment. Each session on Beaver Lake offers not just physical exercise but a complete sensory experience—the warmth of sunshine, the cool splash of water, the scent of fresh air, and the serene views of the surrounding landscape combine to create a profoundly refreshing escape from everyday stresses.

Your PaddleFlow® class follows a thoughtfully designed structure to ensure both safety and optimal enjoyment. Each session begins on shore with essential instruction covering SUP fundamentals, safety protocols, and proper paddle technique. Your instructor will demonstrate how to kneel and stand on the board, how to hold and use the paddle efficiently, and what to expect once you’re on the water. This shore preparation builds confidence and ensures that even complete beginners have the necessary knowledge to participate successfully.

Once everyone is comfortable with the basics, the group launches onto Beaver Lake for a short warm-up paddle that allows participants to adjust to the feeling of being on the water. This initial paddling session helps loosen muscles while improving board control and stability. After the warm-up, the instructor guides the group to a calm area where participants anchor their boards, creating a floating yoga environment. From this stable position, the main portion of the class begins—a flowing sequence of movements specially adapted for the paddleboard environment, challenging your balance while strengthening your core and improving flexibility.

The wellness benefits of PaddleFlow® extend far beyond conventional fitness routines. As you work to maintain balance on your board, nearly every muscle in your body engages in subtle stabilizing actions, especially your core. This constant micro-adjustment creates remarkable improvements in proprioception—your body’s awareness of its position in space—while building functional strength that translates to everyday activities. The coordination required to paddle efficiently and transition between poses develops neural pathways that enhance overall body awareness and athletic performance.

Beyond the physical advantages, PaddleFlow® offers significant mental and emotional benefits. The necessity of staying present to maintain balance naturally quiets the mind, creating a state of flow that many participants describe as deeply therapeutic. The combination of gentle exercise, fresh air, and connection with nature triggers the release of endorphins while reducing stress hormones like cortisol. Many practitioners report improvements in sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and a general sense of well-being that lasts long after they’ve returned to shore.

One of the most appealing aspects of the PaddleFlow® experience at Beaver Lake is its accessibility to participants of all fitness levels. The practice truly includes everyone, from fitness enthusiasts looking for a new challenge to those just beginning their wellness journey. Instructors provide modifications for every pose and exercise, ensuring that each participant can work at their own comfort level while still receiving the full benefits of the practice. This adaptability makes PaddleFlow® an inclusive activity where nobody feels out of place.

The minimum age requirement of 12 years makes this an excellent activity for families with older children or teenagers, providing a unique opportunity to experience wellness together in a natural setting. No prior stand-up paddleboarding experience is necessary to participate, though those new to water sports might consider a private lesson first to build confidence. What matters most isn’t athletic ability or previous experience but simply a willingness to try something new and a sense of adventure. The supportive, non-competitive atmosphere ensures that everyone leaves feeling accomplished, regardless of their starting point.