Ready to learn how to paddle board? Then follow this guide for everything you need to know.
Paddle boarding is insanely fun. You can do it anywhere there’s water, and it can be enjoyed by experienced board riders or total newbies. Learning how to paddle board is not as hard as you might think, and looking like a pro SUP boarder only takes a session or two.
If this sounds good to you, read on for what you need to know when learning how to SUP.
Why Learn How to SUP?
Learning how to paddle board can be one of the best things for anyone to do. Here’s why.
Fun With Friends
Picture this – gliding across the water with your best pals, partner, or even your furry friend.
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) isn’t just a solo sport; it’s a fantastic way to bond and have a blast with your favorite people.
Awesome Exercise
Forget about sweating it out in a stuffy gym. SUP gives your core muscles a killer workout while you soak up the sun and scenery.
Balancing on the board engages muscles you didn’t even know you had, making it an incredibly effective way to tone up and stay fit. Plus, you’ll be having so much fun you won’t even realize you’re exercising.
Nature Therapy
Say goodbye to the hustle and bustle of city life and hello to the great outdoors. With SUP, you get to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Feel the gentle breeze on your face, listen to the soothing sounds of the water, and drink in the beauty of your surroundings.
Is Learning How to Paddle Board Difficult?
Spoiler alert: Stand-up paddle boarding isn’t hard!
If you’re a quick learner, you can learn the basics in just a day or two. There are more challenging forms of SUP, like SUP surfing and long-distance SUP touring, but you can pick up everyday recreational paddling in a snap.
How to Paddle Board
Ready to learn how to SUP? Just follow these steps and tips, and you’ll be up on your board in no time.
Launching Your Paddle Board
Start by walking into the water while holding your board by the center handle. Once you’re knee-deep, gently place the board onto the water’s surface.
Position your paddle across the board and sit with your knees on the board. Take some time to paddle on your knees until you feel comfortable.
How to Stand Up On a Paddle Board
Standing up on a paddle board may seem daunting at first, but with the right technique, it’s manageable.
When you’re ready to stand, move one foot at a time to where your knees were resting. Slowly rise up from a squatting position, ensuring your heels are flat on the board. When you do this, try to place your feet where your knees were resting.
As you rise, do it slowly, keeping your core engaged and your gaze forward. Avoid the temptation to stand up too quickly, as this can throw off your balance. Instead, focus on maintaining a stable stance with your feet parallel and hip-width apart.
Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb any movement from the water. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to find your balance.
How to Stay Balanced On a SUP
Staying balanced on a SUP is all about finding your center of gravity and making small adjustments as needed.
Position your feet parallel to each other and about hip-width apart. Keep your toes pointed forward and your knees slightly bent. Engage your core muscles to help stabilize your body, and avoid leaning too far in any direction.
Shift your weight by moving your hips rather than your upper body. As you paddle, maintain a steady gaze at the horizon to help you stay focused and balanced.
With practice, you’ll develop a strong sense of balance and stability on the water.
How to Hold a SUP Paddle
Proper paddle technique is essential for efficient paddling and not getting overly tired.
When holding your SUP paddle, make sure the blade is angled forward from the shaft, pointing towards the nose of the board. Your hands should be positioned correctly based on your paddling side: your top hand should grip the T-handle, while your bottom hand holds the shaft a few feet down.
Remember to switch hand positions when you switch paddling sides to maintain balance and efficiency. Keep a relaxed grip on the paddle to avoid straining your wrists and forearms.
Falling Off and Getting Back On
Falling off your paddle board is a natural part of learning, so don’t let it discourage you.
If you feel yourself losing balance, aim to fall away from the board and into the water. Try to hold onto your paddle if possible, as it will make getting back on the board easier.
To reboard, position yourself next to your board and grab the center handle with one hand. Let your legs float up behind you, then kick while pulling yourself onto the board. Use the handle for leverage and maintain a steady grip as you climb back on.
SUP Paddling Techniques
Mastering basic paddling techniques will enhance your paddling experience and help you navigate the water with ease.
Start with the forward stroke, which propels your board forward through the water. Plant the paddle in front of you and pull it back towards your ankle, keeping your arms straight and torso engaged.
Practice alternating strokes on each side to maintain a straight line. Experiment with the reverse stroke for slowing down and stopping, and the sweep stroke for turning your board.
As you gain confidence, you can explore more advanced techniques like the draw stroke for lateral movement. Remember to paddle with your core muscles for maximum efficiency and enjoyment.
Types of Paddle Boards
An important part of learning how to paddle board is choosing the right board to use.
There are many different types of paddle boards available, with each one offering a slightly different experience.
Inflatable Paddle Boards
Inflatable paddle boards are portable and convenient, as they can be deflated and rolled up for easy storage and transport. They’re typically made from durable PVC material and offer excellent stability on the water.
This is the type of board we’d recommend you use when learning how to SUP.
Hard Paddle Boards
Hard paddle boards, also known as rigid or solid boards, are made from materials like fiberglass, epoxy, or carbon fiber.
They provide superior performance and speed compared to inflatables, making them ideal for experienced paddlers or those looking for high-performance gear.
All Around Paddle Boards
All-around paddle boards are versatile and suitable for various water conditions, including lakes, rivers, and oceans.
They typically feature a balanced design with moderate width and length, making them suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Fishing Paddle Boards
Fishing paddle boards are designed with specific features for anglers, such as attachment points for fishing gear, extra stability for casting, and a lot of deck space for storing equipment.
They’re ideal for fishing enthusiasts who want to explore waters that are inaccessible by boat.
Yoga Paddle Boards
Yoga paddle boards, also known as SUP yoga boards, are wider and more stable than traditional paddle boards. They provide a sturdy platform for practicing yoga poses on the water.
They often feature soft, non-slip deck pads for added comfort and grip during yoga sessions.
Touring Paddle Boards
Touring paddle boards are designed for long-distance paddling and exploring. They typically have a sleek, streamlined shape for efficient glide and tracking, along with ample storage space for gear.
Touring boards are ideal for paddlers who want to venture out on multi-day excursions.
Surf Paddle Boards
Surf paddle boards, also known as SUP surfboards, are shorter and more maneuverable than other types of paddle boards.
They’re designed for riding waves in the surf zone and often feature a rocker shape and surf-inspired fins for enhanced performance in waves. If you’re considering one of these surfboards, you’ll want to follow the same general steps that you would when choosing a surfboard.
Hybrid Paddle Boards
Hybrid paddle boards combine features from different types of paddle boards to offer versatility and performance in various conditions.
They may incorporate elements of touring, surfing, or all-around designs, making them suitable for paddlers who want a board that can handle different activities and environments.
How to Choose the Right Paddle Board
If you’re a beginner learning how to paddle board, then choose stable, all-around boards with wider shapes for easier balance.
More experienced paddlers might prefer specialized boards like touring or surfing models for specific activities.
Consider the size and weight capacity of the board to ensure it can accommodate you comfortably, and think about factors like storage space, transportation options, and your budget.
If you can, test out different boards to get a feel for them. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experts or rental shops to find the perfect paddle board for your needs.
Essential Paddle Boarding Equipment
Getting the right paddle board is the first step, but you’ll still need a few more accessories before you hit the water. Luckily, many paddle boards come as a kit with all the essential gear included.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Stand-Up Paddle Board (SUP): Your main ride on the water. Choose one based on your weight, skill level, and how you plan to use it.
- SUP Paddle: Your trusty companion for propelling through the water. Make sure it’s the right length and adjusted to your size.
- Paddle Board Leash: Keeps your paddle close if you take an unexpected plunge.
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Not just for safety, sometimes it’s the law. Ensure everyone has one on board, especially kids.
- Flashlight and Safety Whistle: Essential for nighttime paddling or emergencies.
- SUP Clothing: Dress for the weather – wetsuits for chilly waters, and swimsuits with rash guards for warmth and sun protection.
- Shoes: Water-friendly footwear like deck shoes or neoprene shoes keep your feet comfy and protected.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially when they reflect off the water’s surface.
- Dry Bag: Keep your valuables dry and secure, including a towel, phone case, and action camera.
- Paddle Board Bag or Backpack: Safely store and transport your paddle board when not in use.
Paddle Boarding Tips for Beginners
We’ve covered the basics of how to paddle board. But, there’s still a lot you’ll learn as you SUP.
To help make gliding along the water easier, here are some of our best paddle-boarding tips for beginners.
Start in Calm Waters
When you’re just starting out, it’s important to choose a location with calm waters.
Look for a lake, pond, or bay with minimal waves and currents. This will make it much easier to get the hang of standing and paddling on your board without battling against challenging conditions.
Take it Slow
Don’t feel pressured to stand up right away.
Take your time to get accustomed to the feel of the board and the movement of the water. Start by paddling while kneeling to build your confidence and gradually transition to standing as you feel more stable.
Remember, it’s okay to fall – it’s all part of the learning process!
Engage Your Core
Paddle boarding is a full-body workout, with your core muscles playing a crucial role in stability and propulsion.
Focus on engaging your core muscles as you paddle, rather than relying solely on your arms. This will help you paddle more efficiently and maintain better balance on the board.
Keep a Relaxed Grip
It’s easy to tense up and grip the paddle too tightly, especially when you’re feeling nervous or unsteady.
However, gripping the paddle too tightly can lead to fatigue and muscle strain. Instead, focus on maintaining a relaxed grip on the paddle, allowing your wrists to remain flexible and your strokes to flow more smoothly through the water.
Look Ahead
While it’s natural to want to glance down at your feet to check your balance, try to keep your gaze fixed on the horizon instead.
Looking ahead will help you maintain better balance and stability on the board, as well as improve your overall paddling technique. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenery and soak in the beauty of your surroundings while you paddle.
Be Mindful of Wind and Currents
Wind and currents can have a significant impact on your paddle-boarding experience, especially if you’re paddling on open water.
When planning your route, take note of the wind direction and try to paddle into the wind on your way out. This will make it easier to return to shore with the wind at your back.
You’ll also need to be aware of any strong currents that may affect your ability to paddle or steer your board.
Stay Hydrated
Paddleboarding can be surprisingly strenuous, especially if you’re out on the water for a long time.
Be sure to bring plenty of water with you to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration. Consider investing in a hydration pack or water bottle holder for your board to make it easier to access your water while you paddle.
Transporting and Storing Your Paddle Board
Paddle boards are expensive, so you’ll want to make sure that you transport and store your board properly to prolong its lifespan.
- Use a paddle board bag or backpack: Invest in a high-quality paddle board bag or backpack to safely transport your board to and from your paddling destination. Luckily, most paddle boards will come with a bag when you buy them.
- Secure your board properly: When transporting your board on a roof rack or in the bed of a truck, use high-quality straps or bungee cords to secure it tightly in place. Ensure that the board is positioned flat and that it won’t shift or move around during transport.
- Protect your board from the sun: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause damage to your paddle board over time. When storing your board outside, use a board cover or UV-resistant tarp to shield it from the sun’s harmful rays. If storing indoors, choose a location away from direct sunlight, such as a garage or basement.
- Use a board rack or stand: Consider investing in a paddleboard rack or stand to keep your board off the ground and out of harm’s way when not in use. A rack or stand will help prevent damage from accidental bumps or knocks and keep your board organized and easily accessible.
- Rinse your board after each use: After each paddle boarding session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove any salt, sand, or debris that may have stuck on. This will help prevent corrosion and prolong the life of your board’s components.
- Store your board horizontally: When storing your paddle board, always lay it flat horizontally to distribute the weight evenly and prevent warping or damage to the board’s shape. Avoid storing the board vertically on its edge, as this can put unnecessary stress on the board and cause it to warp over time.
Conclusion
Learning how to paddle board is a fun and relatively easy process. Just embrace the falls, have fun in the water, and follow the tips above. They should help you SUP like a pro in no time!