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“We are an Austin-based company, and we do stand-up paddling in all the lakes around Austin,” Jack Dodd with SUP ATX explained.

Austin is leading the way for the sport.

"We just became the number one meet-up group in all of Texas, and we are so happy to be able to get so many people out on the boards," Dodd said. "I think we’re getting close to 1,000 people a week on these boards.”

“It gives you a better workout than you ever thought because your legs are constantly moving and you can feel it in your ankles and your shin,” participant Steve Hall said.

It’s even becoming a popular way for lifeguards to patrol crowded water events like the recently-held Aquapolooza.

Experts say SUP is not like other paddle sports.

“[It’s] completely different from kayaking and canoeing – looking out, being up, being able to look down on the wildlife in the water," Dodd said. "You can spot fish way ahead of time. You can make it an intense workout. You can make it an easy workout.”

And, it’s something pretty much anyone can do.

“It’s just like standing on the ground and you just paddle and look straight ahead," participant Sara Hall said.

The main reason to try this new sport is just to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.