I did my own bare minimum of stretching before I paddled out and learned my own lesson that I need to be in better shape, better paddling shape, for the next outing. Kayak-paddling muscles aren't quite the same ones, quite apparently, as board-paddling muscles. I paddled the (soft) board out, and I realized quickly that I lacked oomph and push. I made my way somewhat nervously beyond the breakers, not ready for a spin and ride nor for a silly wipeout, and rested. Hmmmm. I'm not moving very quickly and am tiring fast. Realizations are good. I paddled about for the practice, the exercise, but slowly, slowly, slowly. I tried a couple of waves, and then returned to the beach, chastened. But happy. Still counts, you know.
Then, I put the 9' board back on the truck's racks, and I pulled out fins, mask, and boogie board and went back out for a while.
