We tried renting a paddleboard on Lake Nokomis. Here's how it went.

One of my summer goals is to spend more time by — and on — the water. So when we decided to launch a mini-series on ways to take advantage of the warm weather , I knew where to start.

What I tried: I'd long been interested in taking a paddleboard out on Lake Nokomis. Signage promising buoys with yoga poses to try on the board sealed the deal.

How it works: I showed up with a friend at the Wheel Fun rental stand next to the main beach around 11am on a recent weekday.

• After handing them a license and paying $22 a piece for our boards and life jackets, we were off.

My thought bubble : While I was a bit wobbly at first, the oversized boards feel much more stable than the inflatable ones I've tried before.

• Our lap from the main beach to the bridge and back was a nice, low-impact workout and a much-needed moment of serenity.

The catch : We forgot to recheck the map before we departed and once on the water, we couldn't find the buoys!

• It turns out they were on the other side of the bridge.

Yes, but: Given that we went about 20 minutes over our rental time, I doubt we could have made it there and back and had time to try the poses in an hour.

Pro tip: The attendants were kind enough to let us leave our bag and keys with them in the kiosk on the slow day.

• But it would be best to bring a dry bag or waterproof phone container on a lanyard.

The bottom line: Worth it! It's a bit pricey for an hour — at $52, a half-day is probably a better deal if you have the time — but it was a pleasant escape.

If you go: The kiosk at 5022 W Lake Nokomis Pkwy is open 10am to 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 10pm on weekends.

• The chain has locations at Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet, too.
• All three also offer kayaks, canoes, swan boats, and "surrey" bike carriages.