Stand Up Paddleboard Tips for Beginners

March 01, 2016

Thinking about trying out one of the most popular self propelled water sports? Stand Up Paddleboarding can be fun and a great workout for you and your family. This relaxing sport can give you some unique views of both sea creatures and the beautiful horizon before you. However before you set out you may want to familiarize yourself with some of the basics of Stand Up Paddleboarding. Obviously wear proper floatation devices for safety but also consult with our Crew Members about the type of gear you will need and proper use before you set out. You may even benefit from a lesson so that you can quickly learn and spend more time paddling along. Here are some of these basics to get you started on this enjoyable sport. Once you’ve mastered the basics, there’s almost no limit to the watery worlds you can explore on your stand up paddleboard. Play in the waves and ocean surf, carve turns or learn new strokes. For more tips consult our friendly and capable Crew Members.

• Mounting your Paddleboard - At first, you may find it easier to kneel on the board rather than to stand upright. It may also be smart to choose flat calm water for your first excursion. Stand alongside your board with your paddle in shallow water. Hold the board by the rails. Pop yourself onto the board into a kneeling position, just behind the center point of the board. Get a feel for the balance point of the board. Once you’re ready, stand up on the board one foot at a time. Place your feet where your knees were. You might also bring a friend to help stabilize the board as you get the hang of standing on it.
• On the Water - Your feet should be parallel, about hip-width distance apart, centered between the board rails (edges). Don’t stand on the rails. Keep toes pointed forward, knees bent and your back straight. Balance with your hips—not your upper body. Keep your head and shoulders steady and upright, and shift your weight by moving your hips. Your gaze should be level at the horizon. Avoid staring at your feet.
• When You Fall Stand up paddleboarding is fairly easy to learn, but expect to take the occasional fall as you’re gaining skills. For those inevitable times you lose your balance: Aim yourself to the side, so that you fall into the water and not onto the board. Falling onto the board is more likely to cause an injury. If you get separated from your paddle and your board, get your board first, then paddle it to retrieve the paddle.