Learning how to paddleboard

Written by Daily Fix - Published 23-Jun-2023, last updated 21-Jun-2024

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to get exercise, explore the outdoors, and have fun. It is a relatively easy sport to learn, but there are a few things you should know before you get started.

But first, what is SUP, or stand up paddleboarding?

What is SUP?

SUP is a water sport that involves standing on a paddleboard and using a paddle to propel yourself through the water. SUP boards are typically wider and more stable than surfboards, making them easier to stand on. There are many different types of SUP boards, each designed for a specific purpose. For example, there are boards for surfing, cruising and even yoga.

SUP is a great way to explore lakes, rivers, and even the sea. It is also a great workout, as it requires the use of all major muscle groups.

SUP is commonly known as "stand-up paddleboarding", "paddleboarding" and "S.U.P.".

Paddleboarding - How to get started

If you are new to SUP, there are a few things you should do to get started:

Take a lesson from a qualified instructor

This is the best way to learn the basics of SUP and to get some hands-on experience.

Most watersports venues that offering paddleboarding will also offer paddleboarding lessons taken by qualified paddleboard instructors. These could be one-on-one sessions where you get the instructor all to yourself, or a group session where the instructor teaches a group of SUP newbies.

Some watersport centres will run courses or offer block booking of lessons at a rate that works out cheaper than booking 5 or 6 individual lessons.

Rent a SUP board before you buy one

This will give you a chance to try out SUP and see if it is right for you. Sup boards can cost from a couple of hundred Pounds upwards, so it would be wise to see if you like paddleboarding before investing in a board.

But the second hand paddleboard market is buoyant (sorry!!), so you shouldn't have any problems finding a buyer for your paddleboard if you bought one at the beginning of your SUP journey only to find it's not for you.

Buy a good quality SUP board

A good quality board will make it easier to learn and will be more enjoyable to paddle.

Wear a life jacket

Wearing a life jacket, also known as a buoyancy aid, is crucial for ensuring safety while paddling in open water. A life jacket works by providing extra flotation and support to keep you afloat in case of an accident or unexpected capsize. It helps to distribute your body weight evenly, allowing you to conserve energy and stay above the water surface even if you are injured or unconscious.

Basic SUP techniques

If you sign up for a paddleboard lessons then your instructor will start with the basics. Once you have mastered these you can start to learn some more advanced SUP techniques. Here are a few of the most important basic paddlebiarding techniques to learn:

How to paddling

This is the basic technique for moving forward on a SUP board. We said we'd start with the basics!

Turning a paddleboard

There are a few different ways to turn a SUP board. The most common way is to use your paddle to steer.

Stopping a paddleboard

To stop a SUP board, you can either paddle backwards or simply stand up and let the board drift.

Balancing on a paddleboard

Maintaining your balance on a SUP board is essential. There are a few different exercises you can do to improve your balance.

Safety when paddleboarding

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when SUPing:

Always paddle with a buddy

This is especially important if you are paddling in open water. In fact, many watersports venues will have this as a rule of their centre."

Be aware of your surroundings

Pay attention to the weather, the water conditions, and other boats or swimmers. When you are paddleboarding at a watersports centre you will be asked to leave the water if lightning and thunder is detected nearby, and they may also have separate areas for paddleboarders, swimmers and boaters.

Make sure you read any safety notices, and be vigilant at all times.

Wear a life jacket

This is likely to be mandatory. But even if it's not, a life jacket or buoyancy aid is important for safety, especially if you are paddling in open water.

You may be able to hire a buoyancy aid at your local watersports centre, but check before going in case you need to provide your own.

Life jackets come in different sizes and designs, so it is important to choose one that fits you properly. An ill-fitting life jacket may not provide adequate buoyancy or could slip off during critical moments. Ensure that the life jacket is snug but still allows freedom of movement.

Be prepared for the unexpected

Things like wind gusts or waves can appear out of nowhere and knock you off balance and before you know it you are in the water! So be prepared to react quickly.

Your paddleboard should be connected to your ankle with an ankle leash (this will probable come with your SUP if you purchased a board), so if you do end up in the water your SUP won't quickly float away into the distance.

Conclusion

Learning how to SUP is a great way to get exercise, explore the outdoors, and have fun. With a little practice, you will be paddling like a pro in no time!

If you are looking for a fun, healthy, and active way to enjoy the water, then SUP is a great option for you.

Invest in a few lessons from a qualified instructor so that you can learn the basics, it'll be worth every penny!