Paddling a stand up paddle board (SUP) is fairly easy. You just need to follow a few simple steps and you’ll be on your way! In this article, we will discuss the basics of how to paddle a SUP.
We’ll cover how to hold the paddle, how to move the board, and how to turn. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, read on for tips on how to paddle a SUP a properly
What Is A Stand Up Paddle Board?
A stand up paddle board, or SUP is a large surfboard-like paddle board that you can stand on and paddle.
They are becoming increasingly popular as a way to get out on the water and enjoy some exercise. Unlike kayaks or canoes, SUPs are not limited to rivers or lakes – they can be used in the ocean too!
And unlike traditional surfing, you don’t need any waves to ride a SUP.
How To Paddle A Stand Up Paddle Board
Now that you know a little bit about SUPs, let’s discuss how to paddle one. The following steps will teach you the basics of how to paddle a SUP.
1- Get On The Board
The first step is to get on the board. You can do this by either lying down on the board and then standing up, or by kneeling on the board and then standing up.
Once you’re in a standing position, make sure that your feet are shoulder-width apart and that you’re balanced evenly on the board.
2- Hold The Paddle Properly
Next, it’s time to grab the paddle. The paddle should be in line with your shoulders, and you should grip it with both hands at shoulder width.
3- Start Paddling
Now it’s time to start paddling! To do this, extend your arms straight out in front of you and then bend your elbows so that your hands are close to your chest.
Next, drive the blade of the paddle into the water and pull it towards you. Then, release the paddle and let it go back into the water behind you.
Make sure to keep your arms extended as you paddle, and don’t forget to breathe!
4- Turning The Board
To turn the board, simply paddle on one side of the board more than the other. For example, if you want to turn to the right, paddle more on the right side of the board than the left side.
You can also use your body weight to help with turning. For instance, if you want to turn to the left, lean your body weight to the left side of the board.
Now that you know how to paddle a SUP, get out there and give it a try! Just remember to have fun and stay safe!
When Paddling A SUP, Always Remember
When paddling a SUP, always remember to:
1- Get on the board by either lying down or kneeling
2- Position yourself so that your feet are shoulder-width apart
3- Hold the paddle so that it is in line with your shoulders
4- Grip the paddle with both hands at shoulder width
5- Paddle on one side of the board more than the other to turn
6- Use your body weight to help with turning.
How To Paddle in different directions:
1- Forward
To paddle forward, extend your arms straight out in front of you and then bend your elbows so that your hands are close to your chest.
Next, drive the blade of the paddle into the water and pull it towards you. Then, release the paddle and let it go back into the water behind you.
2- Backward
To paddle backward, do the same motion as when paddling forward, but instead of pulling the paddle towards you, push it away from you.
3- Left turn
To turn left, paddle more on the left side of the board than on the right side. Lean your body weight to the left side of SUP to help with turning.
4- Right turn
To turn right, paddle more on the right side of the board than on the left. Lean your body weight to the right side of SUP to help with turning.
5- Stopping
To stop, simply put your paddle down in the water and hold it there. You can also use this method to slow down if you’re going too fast.
Basic paddle strokes for getting around on a SUP:
1- Front Stroke
The front stroke is the most basic paddle stroke and it’s used to move the board forward. To do this, extend your arms straight out in front of you and then bend your elbows so that your hands are close to your chest.
Next, drive the blade of the paddle into the water and pull it towards you. Then, release the paddle and let it go back into the water behind you.
2- Sweep Stroke
The sweep stroke is used to turn the board or slow down. To do this, hold the paddle parallel to the ground with one hand on top of the other and then sweep it from one side of the board to the other.
3- Reverse Stroke
The reverse stroke is used to move the board backward. To do this, extend your arms straight out in front of you and then bend your elbows so that your hands are close to your chest.
Next, drive the blade of the paddle into the water and pull it towards you. Then, release the paddle and let it go back into the water behind you.
4- Sidestroke
The sidestroke is used to move the board to either side. To do this, grip the paddle with one hand on top of the other and then hold it parallel to the ground.
Next, push or pull the paddle through the water in the direction you want to go.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to paddle a SUP, get out there and give it a try! Just remember to have fun and stay safe! while paddling by always wearing a life jacket! And don’t forget to have fun!
