Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the water. You can paddle on lakes, rivers, oceans, and even surf waves with a SUP. It's also a great workout that can improve your balance, strength, and endurance. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a way to connect with nature, or a challenge, SUP might be the perfect sport for you.
But how do you get started with SUP? What do you need to know before you hit the water? In this guide, we'll cover the basics of stand up paddle boarding, from choosing the right equipment to learning how to paddle and stand on your board. We'll also share some tips and tricks to help you have a safe and enjoyable SUP experience.
What You Need to SUP
To start paddle boarding, you'll need a few essential items:
- A paddle board: This is the most important piece of equipment, as it will determine how well you can balance and maneuver on the water. Paddle boards come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, depending on your skill level, weight, and paddling style. For beginners, it's best to choose a board that is wide, long, and thick, as this will provide more stability and buoyancy. You can also opt for an inflatable paddle board, which is easier to transport and store than a hard board.
- A paddle: This is what you'll use to propel yourself on the water. A paddle should be about 6 to 10 inches taller than your height, and have a comfortable grip and a curved blade. The blade should face away from you when you paddle, as this will create more power and efficiency in your stroke.
- A leash: This is a cord that attaches your board to your ankle or calf, preventing it from drifting away if you fall off. A leash is a must-have for safety, especially in windy or wavy conditions. There are different types of leashes for different types of paddling, such as coiled leashes for flat water and straight leashes for surf.
- A personal flotation device (PFD): This is a vest or belt that helps you stay afloat in case of an emergency. A PFD is required by law in many places when you paddle outside of swimming or surfing areas. It's also a good idea to wear one for extra safety and peace of mind.
- Proper clothing: Depending on the weather and water temperature, you'll want to wear clothing that keeps you comfortable and protected from the sun. In warm conditions, you can wear a swimsuit, board shorts, or a rash guard. In cool conditions, you can wear a wetsuit or a dry suit. You can also wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield yourself from UV rays.
How to Paddle Board
Once you have your gear ready, it's time to learn how to paddle board. Here are the basic steps:
- Find a calm and shallow spot to launch your board. Carry your board into the water until it's about knee-deep, then place it parallel to the shore. Make sure the fins are in the back and not touching the bottom.
- Start on your knees. Hold your paddle across the board and use it to balance yourself as you climb onto the board in a kneeling position. Your knees should be slightly behind the center of the board, where the carry handle is located.
- Start paddling. Hold your paddle with one hand on the top of the handle and the other hand on the shaft. Keep your arms straight and use your torso to twist and pull the paddle through the water. To go straight, paddle a few strokes on one side, then switch to the other side. To turn, paddle backwards on one side or forwards on the other side.
- Stand up slowly. When you feel ready to stand up, place your paddle horizontally on the board in front of you. Then move one foot at a time to where your knees are and stand up slowly while keeping your knees bent and your back straight. Grab your paddle and hold it vertically in front of you with both hands.
- Balance yourself. To stay balanced on your board, keep your feet shoulder-width apart and parallel to each other. Don't look down at your feet or the board; instead, look at the horizon or a fixed point in front of you. Relax your body and don't tense up your muscles.
Best Tips for SUP
Now that you know how to stand up paddle board, here are some tips to help you improve your skills and have more fun:
- Choose the right conditions. For beginners, it's best to avoid windy or wavy conditions that can make paddling harder and more dangerous. Look for calm and flat water with little or no current or boat traffic. You can also check the weather forecast and tide charts before you go out.
- Practice good posture. Having good posture on your board will help you paddle more efficiently and prevent injuries. Keep your back straight, your shoulders relaxed, and your head up. Don't hunch over or lean too far forward or backward. Engage your core muscles and use them to power your stroke.
- Use the right technique. To paddle correctly, you need to use the whole blade of your paddle and not just the tip. To do this, you need to reach forward with your paddle and insert it into the water near your toes. Then pull it back along the side of your board until it reaches your ankle. Then lift it out of the water and repeat on the other side. Don't drag your paddle across the surface of the water or make wide arcs with it.
- Have fun and be safe. Paddle boarding is a great way to enjoy nature, explore new places, and have fun with friends and family. You can also try different types of paddling, such as surfing, fishing, yoga, or racing. Just remember to always follow the safety rules, respect other water users, and wear a PFD and a leash.