Introduction to Stand-up Paddle-boarding and Yoga in Gatineau Park, QC

Soldier On will be partnering with PaddleFit to host an introductory SUP session followed by a sunset SUP yoga class on July 19 at Meech Lake in beautiful Gatineau Park, just outside Ottawa, ON at 5:45 - 8:50 p.m. This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy and active lifestyle.

Up to 16 ill/injured serving or retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces will receive SUP instruction on basic skills and have the opportunity to practice a variety of yogic movements on their boards at sunset. This program will assist in the continuation of a healthy lifestyle.

Participants will begin the evening by taking part in a beginner Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP) session where they will develop the basics and beyond with the support of certified coaches. Following a short break, participants will get out and enjoy a sunset SUP yoga session. This session is designed to suit beginner to experienced SUP users, offering each type of paddler a challenge if they so choose. Paddleboards and life jackets will be provided to members who do not have their own.

The session will include 1.5 hours of instructor lead activities followed by a short break and 1 hour sunset SUP yoga session. Participants should arrive 10 minutes prior to the start of class to gather their SUP and life jacket rentals courtesy of the service provider.

Classes will be held at Meech Lake in Gatineau Park.

All skills levels and abilities are welcome as the program will run at a pace comfortable for beginners but offer adaptations and/or challenges for those who would like them.

Assistance throughout the event will be provided courtesy of PaddleFit.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 16.

Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the National Capital Region who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service. Travel assistance will not be provided.

Serving Members
Medical clearance may be required by your chain of command.

Mental & Physical Requirements

• Participants must be able to tolerate three hours of light to moderate-paced activity per session.
  • Participants are advised that they will require some upper body range of motion.
  • Participants should be average swimmers.
  • Participants will be required to wear the issued Personal Flotation Device at all times while on or near the water.
• Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.