How to Paddleboard: A Beginner's Guide

Paddleboarding (SUP) is a versatile water sport that offers many ways to have fun on the water. Here's a breakdown of the basics:

1. Getting On and Standing Up

• Getting On: First, push your paddleboard into shallow water, being mindful not to drag the fin(s) along the bottom. Stand beside the board and place one foot onto the board, kneeling down. This lowers your center of gravity, making it easier to stay balanced. Rest both knees on the board, adjusting your position until you feel stable.

• Standing Up: Slowly bring one foot up to stand. Place your foot where your knee was previously. Continue to hold the rails of the board to help stabilize yourself. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly bending your knees and adjust your center of gravity. Keep your head and shoulders upright and use your core and glutes to help control your balance. Look forward, not down at your feet.

2. Paddling Techniques

• Forward Stroke: Reach forward and plant the paddle blade fully into the water. Keep your arms straight, and press down on the paddle handle with one hand. Use your core muscles to pull the paddle back towards your ankle. Then, lift the paddle out of the water and repeat. To move in a straight line, alternate strokes on each side of the board every four or five strokes. To turn, paddle continuously on one side. Paddling on the left side will turn the board to the right, and vice versa. The further out you paddle, the sharper the turn.

• Reverse Stroke: Primarily used for slowing down, stopping, and turning, the reverse stroke is essentially the opposite of the forward stroke. Just like with the forward stroke, keep your arms straight and use your core muscles to pull the paddle backward, from front to back.

• Sweep Stroke: The sweep stroke is very effective for turning your board when stationary or moving. If you want to turn left, engage your core, legs, and glutes. On the right side of the board, sweep the paddle in a half-circle from the nose to the tail. This will turn the board to the left, and vice versa.

• Draw Stroke: The draw stroke is mainly used for pulling yourself closer to the shore or changing direction. To move to the right, rotate your shoulders to the right, plant the paddle in the water on the right side of the board, and pull the paddle towards the board. This will move the board to the right. The fin isn't very effective for lateral movement, so the tail of the board may move more slowly than the nose. You can insert the paddle closer to the tail for a more effective draw.

• Bow Draw Stroke: The bow draw is useful for making quick directional adjustments while moving. If you want to turn right, rotate your body to the left, with your right shoulder forward. Fully plant the paddle blade in the water on the left side of the nose and then sweep the paddle in a large arc towards the right side of the tail.

3. Falling and Getting Back On

• Falling: Despite your best efforts to stay balanced on the board, you may fall into the water at any time. Even the most professional paddleboarders aren't immune to it. If you fall, try to fall into the water, not onto the board, as falling on the board can cause injury. When falling, try to hold onto your paddle. If you lose it, prioritize getting back to your board first and use your hands to paddle.

• Getting Back On: Grab the board's center handle with one hand, and as you pull on the handle, reach your other hand over the edge of the board. Slide yourself onto the board.

4. Safety Tips

• Wear a Life Jacket (PFD): Always wear a life jacket when on the water, in case you fall in.

• Use a Leash: A leash will keep your board close to you if you fall, ensuring your safety.

• Choose Appropriate Water: Stick to calm lakes or ponds without boats or buoys. Avoid paddleboarding during thunderstorms or typhoons.

By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy paddleboarding safely and have fun. Always be aware of your surroundings and prioritize your safety.