Stand up Paddle Boarding is a very popular activity as it is fun, relaxing and it also allows you to explore the sea without actually having to be in it.
If you’re interesting in trying Paddle Boarding out then follow our tips to learn how to Paddle Board to make sure you get the most out of your experience:
The main thing you need to prioritise is safety. To ensure you won’t lose your Paddle Board, you need to make sure to use a leash. Whether you choose a straight or coiled leash attached to your ankle or calf, you need to make sure it is secure and high-quality. At the end of the day, the paddle board becomes your life-saving device which means you should keep it attached to you at all times to avoid it being lost in windy or stormy conditions.
Choosing the right equipment is essential to your overall enjoyment and safety while out on the water. It is best to start with a thick and wide all-around Paddle Board so it is easy to balance on in flat and wavy waters. The right thickness and volume of your Paddle Board should suit your body type to ensure it supports you. The paddle is also a very important part of this, the ideal paddle length will vary depending on your height, you should choose a paddle that is 9-10 inches taller than your height. This means you shouldn’t have to stoop or bend over, which will help you preserve energy and maintain your stability on your paddle board.
When you’re standing up on your Paddle Board, your body acts like a sail. So, strong winds will likely steer you and your board different ways which makes it much harder to paddle. So before you head out to the sea to SUP, it is definitely worth checking the the water conditions and weather/wind forecast. If you are out on the water and the wind or waves seem to be getting a bit too much, you can easily just lie down on the board, with the paddle underneath you and just paddle with your arms (like you would on a surfboard) until you feel safe to get back up on your feet.
Standing up on your Paddle Board is already difficult at first, but actually staying up on it is even trickier! Stability is key. Try your best to keep your head looking forwards and not down at your feet, maintain a good body posture as this can ruin your balance. Keep your back straight, legs slightly bent, shoulders pulled back and by bearing your body weight on the balls of your feet.
It is completely natural to fall off the Paddle Board at any point (even for the advanced!) However, it is important to make sure you fall away from the heavy board so you don’t injure yourself while falling. Remember, don’t worry about the board when you jump off as as long as you have the leash attached, you won’t lose it.
We really hope these paddle boarding tips will make you feel more comfortable and confident while in the water, allowing you to have a wonderful and safe time. We stock Stand Up Paddle Boards on our site if you do not have one and want one! Don’t forget, if you need a trusty waterproof bag to keep hold of all your belongings you don’t want getting wet, then have a look at what we offer!