Ultimate Beginners Guide: Stand Up Paddleboarding

Stand Up Paddleboarding is an activity that is so straight forward that anyone at any skill level can have fun with on the very first day they get out on the water. It has been practiced in one form or another for thousands of years, but recently became more popular as a form of surfing that started in Hawaii. Now people of varying fitness levels, ages, and skill can enjoy a day on the water from the vantage point of standing above it.

Must Haves For Stand Up Paddle Boarding:

• A quality paddleboard is the main piece of equipment you need. There are three main types of Stand Up Paddle Boards or SUPS. Single-layer, double-layer, and inflatable paddle boards. Each type has its perks and drawbacks. For beginners and the experienced alike, an inflatable board offers convenience and flexibility that a rigid board cannot. However, a non-inflatable board may be better suited to hard-core surfing. Different SUPS have a variety of accessories to fit its use. For example, a fishing SUP may have a pole holder, and a touring SUP may have a displacement hull.
• Stand-Up Paddles are a SUP requirement if you want to get around and not just drift and crash. Your paddles are an item that are height specific and can make boarding difficult if people of vastly different heights trade with each other. Carbon fiber is the generally accepted best material for it's durability and light weight. 
• A personal flotation device is recommended if you are going into deeper waters and/or if you are not completely confident in your swimming skills. There are many available for adults that are barely noticeable and will not impede upon your movement.

Don't Forget These Accessories:

• A pump for inflatable boards. A quality pump will be lightweight and fit right with the board.
• A leash. This is vital because you do not want to have to chase down your board in the water if you fall in.

Just Have Fun on That First Day on The Water.

The first step to Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, once you get your gear and are ready to approach the water, is to not take yourself too seriously. It is relatively easy and immensely fun but you can expect to fall in a few times before you get the hang of it. Some argue that the falling in is half the fun anyway.

Second, choose a location with calm water that is not too deep, nor shallow. You should feel comfortable in the water you practice in. Once you and your board are in the water and you feel comfortable with your surroundings if you fall in, climb up on the board in a kneeling position. Before you actually stand, get a feel for the movement of the board. Paddle a bit until you feel comfortable.

Then, slowly pull yourself up to a standing position. This is will become second nature and easy after the first few times, but on that first try do not be afraid to take your time. Keep yourself centered on the board with your knees shoulder-width apart. You will need to use your core for balance at this point. Bending your knees slightly will help, but you do not need to keep a bent-knee position. Don't worry if you fall, just get right back on.

To move around on the board you will want to practice with your paddle. Basically, remember canoe paddle rules about switching sides to go opposite directions and extending only one arm. You need to be mindful to stay centered while paddle boarding but it will soon become second nature as you practice and explore.

Remember to keep your feet centered in a comfortable standing position. Resist the temptation to go into the surf position unless you are actually surfing at the moment.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors, get a core workout to improve balance and form, and spend time with friends and family. Some people even bring their well-behaved water-loving pets on the board with them. If you are ready to surf, explore, fish, practice yoga, or just wander on a stand-up paddleboard check out our variety of boards and accessories at  Dunn Rite Pool Products today.

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