A Step By Step Guide To Paddleboarding

Stand-up paddling is not just a fun activity, but it is also a great full-body workout that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Any other benefits? It’s suitable for people of all skill levels, body types, and ages. You can even paddle with your pet if you want to. Since this watercraft is becoming increasingly popular, you’ll surely want to know how to paddle board. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do just that.

Get Geared Up

Before you hit the water, you must have the appropriate gear. Thankfully, you don’t need a lot with paddleboarding. Here is a list of the essential equipment for SUPing:

• Paddleboard
• Paddle
• Leash
• Life jacket/PFD
• Pump
• Appropriate clothing (wet suit/ dry suit)

Life jackets are indispensable during paddleboarding, and the Kokatat SeaO2 Life Jacket is made with premium quality features to ensure absolute safety while you’re on the board.

Standing Up

• Firstly, set your board onto the water and ensure that the fin won’t hit bottom.
• After that, get onto the board in a kneeling position. Gradually try to stand up one foot at a time.
• Maintain your position in the center of your board with your feet parallel to the stringer.
• Maintain a slight bend in your knees and raise your chest. Once you have found your balance, you can extend your legs to stand up.

A small board can pose some stability challenges for beginners, so it’s pertinent to choose the right kind of board. The JP AngLAIR SE inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard 11-0 is durable and easy to maneuver.

Maintaining Balance

Once you’re standing up, your next goal is to maintain your balance.

• Keep your feet in a parallel position and center them between the edges of your board.
• Ensure that your back is straight, knees bent, and your toes pointed forward.
• Make sure that your shoulders and head are upright and steady. If you want to shift your weight, you’ll have to move your hips.

The 2020 Pau Hana Surf Supply 12’0 Endurance Paddle Board is not just easy to maintain balance but comes with Ricochet hull protection that can withstand up to 1000psi.

Holding A Paddle

One of the most common mistakes when it comes to SUP-ing is holding the paddle. Here’s the appropriate way to do it:

• As you try to maintain balance, you must paddle to scoop the water. The paddle goes in the opposite direction of your movement, and this results in smoother strokes that will reduce the stress on your knees and shoulders.
• The blade of your paddle must move away from you and towards the nose of your board.
• If you paddle on the right side of your unit, your right hand must be a few feet down on the shaft, and your left hand must be on the t-grip. When you change sides, reverse your hand positions.

If you’re looking for a paddle, the Bending Branches Angler Classic Kayak Paddle is a perfect combination of efficiency and convenience.

Falling Safely

Whether you’re a beginner or professional, its inevitable that you’ll encounter falls at some point. However, knowing how to fall safely will ensure that your SUP session isn’t cut short by injuries. Paddleboards are quite large and can cause bruises if they hit you, and as such, you must fall away from your board.

You’ll be attached to your board through the leash, so you don’t have to worry about it getting away. You must make sure that you don’t hit the fins or the board. This is particularly important if you’re SUPing in a location with waves or currents as your board will move independently.

Leashes are essential for ensuring safety and the Danuu SUP Stand Up Paddleboard Leash is a sturdy and efficient leash that features a string double swivel urethane coiled cord.

Ride The Right Waves

You might be tempted to ride the big waves, but they can be quite intimidating even for professionals. However, it would be best to ride the waves according to your current skill level. After you build your skills and experience, you can catch the bigger waves. While SUPing, you should try to feel the power and flow of the water. If you’re not ready and face big waves, you’ll end up in unfavorable circumstances.

The 2021 NRS Thrive 11.0 Inflatable SUP Board is perfect for any form of SUPing, and thanks to the heavy-duty PVC drop-stitch construction and double sidewalls, it’s incredibly durable.

Wrap up

With the above tips and a little bit of patience, you will be able to paddleboard safely in no time. After you’ve gained more experience and skill, you can try more complex techniques.