Arthur Levitt came to Westport’s Downunder Kayaks/SUP’s/Surf Shop to strengthen his back and core after watching Stand Up Paddle Boarders navigating the Saugatuck River all summer. But he was 80, after all. No problem, judging by Levitt’s message to owner Kim Beaumont. “You wonderful, wonderful lady, you have no idea how great this is! How good it makes me feel!”  “Land exercises increased his balance before moving onto the water,” says Beaumont. “Then I researched to find the perfect board” for Levitt, former head of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Beaumont explained why the sport is so beneficial for all:  “When you paddle board your feet naturally grip the traction pad on the board, engaging all the leg muscles. The paddling motion engages your core. One fitness expert burned 800 calories in an hour paddle boarding, which is also known as SUPing (Stand Up Paddling).” Westport Downunder is offering an indoor fitness program over the winter designed to give the same type of workout that paddle boarding does. They will also be offering programs in the pool at the Greenwich YMCA.

Downunder Kayak is at 575 Riverside Avenue in Westport. Call 203.956.6217. Also at 157 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton. 203.642.3660. Visit DownUnderCT.com. Email [email protected].