Everyone who wants to learn something new always has to take the time to master it. It’s no secret that paddle boarding is fun once you know how. Some people may learn it overnight, while others have to take their time to comprehend the basics. If you don’t know how to balance on a stand up paddle board, this article is for you!
We’ve prepared some stand up paddle board tips for beginners that are guaranteed to help you improve in no time.
Getting the Right Paddle Boarding Gear for Yourself
The paddle board gear you use has an essential role to play in your learning. Experts suggest that you shouldn’t pick a random paddle board and paddle. The size of the board can either make it easy for you or cause you a great deal of discomfort. You will have to consider your height and weight. It is also best to start with a wider paddle board for better control. Over time, you’ll be able to master the art of balance on a thinner SUP.
Learning How To Get on the Board
Now that you know how to choose the right SUP, the next paddle boarding tip is to learn how to get on the SUP properly. For beginners, standing up on a paddle board is not an easy feat. What you can do is find an area with shallow waters. There, it would be easier to get your knees onto the board.
Make sure that you’re not too far back or too far forward because the board will sink either way. Always make sure that you’re in the middle of the board for it to be steady. Once you can balance on the board while kneeling, you can try standing up. If kneeling is an ordeal, you may need a wider board for greater stability.
Learning How To Stand Up
When you already know how to balance yourself while kneeling, the next step is to stand up without falling. Some people may find it difficult to get up when they have stiff knees. The good thing is that your paddle can help. You can use it to rest your weight on until you’re able to stand up. Don’t forget to position your feet where your knees were.
Keeping Your Knees Bent and Your Upper Body Forward
Another thing you can do to make sure that you keep your balance on the paddle board is slightly bending your knees. It is also advised not to look down to avoid putting too much of your weight forward and losing your balance.
Keeping the Paddle in the Water
Your paddle gives you more assistance than you know. When you start paddling, make sure that your paddle is always in the water. If you start to stumble, putting your paddle out to your side will help you stabilize.
Standing in the Middle of the SUP
Always keep in mind that your position on the SUP matters. Another stand up paddle boarding tip is to make sure that you’re always in the middle to keep your balance. As previously mentioned, standing on the far end of the SUP will make the tail sink as much as standing too far in the front. If your concern is falling on the SUP, the center of the paddle board is your friend. If you want to move backwards or forwards, making small jumps is much better than lifting one of your feet off the board.
As they say, practice makes perfect. Don’t lose heart if you haven’t been able to stand up on an SUP yet. Everyone learns at their own pace. Soon enough, you’ll be able to know how to balance on a stand up paddle board.
If you want to invest more of your time practicing, Island Marine Rentals offers affordable SUP rentals. Aside from that, we also offer kayak, bicycle, and boat rentals in Clearwater, FL. Book with us today!
