So you’ve decided to try paddle boarding but are unsure of how to begin? No worries, we’ll cover everything you need to know about paddle boarding in this article!

 

 

Maybe you’ve seen videos doing rounds on the internet of people paddle boarding for different events and thought it looked fun and wanted to learn more about it. So, what exactly is paddle boarding and why is everyone getting so obsessed with it?

 

What Is Paddle Boarding?

To put it simply, paddle boarding is a water sport in which you stand up on a board and move through the water with a paddle. It is also referred to as SUP, or simply stand-up paddling. Due to its reputation as one of the most fun and safe water sports, it is becoming more and more popular among both younger and older outdoor lovers lately. Just a little bit simpler, the enjoyment is on par with that of water skiing, surfing, kayaking, or rowing, but it isn’t necessarily as dangerous as some of those activities.

Paddleboarding is a sport for everyone, not just athletes and professionals. A person who wants to spend time in nature will find it to be a great hobby. You can start out using a paddle board as a fun and healthy hobby or move on to using it for more advanced activities such as fishing, touring, going out on the ocean, or even competing against your friends. Even at a beginner level and with little practice or instruction, it is an all-encompassing water sport that can be immensely enjoyed.

 

Why is Paddle Boarding Such a Great Hobby?

From spring to fall this is a fantastic form of enjoying nature, stepping away from stress, getting some easy exercise, and spending time with friends. Aside from being a thrilling water sport, paddle boarding has several other advantages that should not be overlooked.

Fun Workout

Workouts are rarely pleasurable. However, we all know we must adhere to an active lifestyle if we want to stay healthy and fit. So what if we told you that you could enjoy the outdoors by participating in a water sport that will not only be exciting but will also help you stay in shape? Yes, we are talking about paddle boarding. Paddle boarding is an exhilarating, low impact, full-body workout and an excellent hobby that will keep you fit and active without depriving you of fun. 

Good For Mental Health

Apart from keeping you in good shape, paddle boarding also helps maintain your overall health. You will not only be working out your major muscle groups, but your mind will be having a relaxing time too. The best method to relieve stress is to have some isolated time with Mother Nature or a few good friends.

Requires Little Investment

Paddle boarding is quite affordable compared to other sports or physical activities that call for huge, expensive equipment. The equipment required is minimal, and the cost is also reasonable. You can buy gently used equipment or even rent it from your local paddle boarding companies. Thus, paddle boarding is cost-effective and perfect for beginners who don’t want to spend a fortune on a hobby.

Can Be Enjoyed With Friends Or Family

If you’re looking for a fun family activity, paddle boarding is the perfect sport. Paddle boarding is one of the very few pastimes that the entire family can engage in together. Additionally, you can form a team with your friends who share your enthusiasm for this water sport in addition to having fun with your whole family. 

If you’re planning races and want to have a little friendly competition, inviting friends and family to go paddle boarding with you is a brilliant idea.

Easy To Learn

To learn a sport, you typically need some specialized skills and lots of practice, but not this one. The best thing about paddleboarding is how simple it is to learn and how quickly a beginner will pick up this activity. It’s possible you could learn it without even hiring a trainer. You just need to learn the fundamentals of where to start (which we’ll explain to you in a bit), and you’re good to go. You won’t have to take many chances or risk failure, and you’ll quickly pick it up and start enjoying it.

 

Requirements For Paddle Boarding

Paddle boarding is a fun and easy sport that doesn’t require any extravagant equipment. All the necessities are absolutely basic and are the same whether you are a beginner or experienced. For paddle boarding; you’ll be needing;

• A paddle board
• A paddle
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) also known as a life jacket
• Pump (if using an inflatable board)
• Leash

 

How To Pick The Right Board

That’s all you’ll be needing to begin this exciting venture. However, choosing the right paddle board for you could be a task since there are several types available. When you’re out shopping for your first board you’ll come across different types of paddle boards. Each of them serves a specific purpose and is made from different materials. Choosing the right one depends totally on what type you are looking for and for what activity. We’ll be discussing each type briefly so you can easily make a decision.  

According To Purpose:

1. Surf: 

If you are more interested in going surfing, you should consider purchasing a surf paddle board. These are typically made of hard composite materials and provide the best performance. They are smaller and have pointed noses, and they are shaped exactly like surfboards. Almost any board can be used for surfing, but paddle boards make the activity much simpler and more enjoyable.

2. All Around:

As a beginner, all you need to focus on is this all-purpose paddle board. This board is one of the few that can handle any situation. Almost every material is available in an all-around board, which has a long body and rounded nose. So you can choose your preferred material while still having the best overall paddling experience. Fishing, surfing, touring, yoga, and racing are all activities that are possible with all-around boards. However, they are not proficient in all of them.

3. Touring:

Touring paddle boards are longer than all-around boards and much faster. They are the most stable type and better suited for traveling long distances. They are made of inflatable or composite material, and they float effortlessly over the water while providing a comfortable tour. The best experience may come from using a touring board, but learning to use one may be daunting for beginners.

According To Construction:

1. Epoxy Boards:

Epoxy paddle boards, also known as hard boards, are traditional paddle boards made of layers of fiberglass and epoxy resin. They are the best option if you are enthusiastic about paddle boarding and want to become a professional. Hard boards are the best choice for surfing or racing because they deliver better and faster performance. 

Nevertheless, with great performance comes a great price. Epoxy or hard boards typically cost more than other paddle boards on the market. However, their strength and durability make up for the price.

2. Inflatable Boards: 

Inflatable paddle boards are the best option for beginners because they are simple to use and manage. An inflatable board must be inflated using a pump, and it typically comes packed in a backpack. Due to their portability and compactness, they are also the most well-liked options available. 

However, since they are lightweight, they may not be as good as hard boards in terms of performance. Inflatable boards are undoubtedly among the best and most durable, but they can be slower than other boards

3. Foam Boards:

Although durable and fantastic for beginners and children alike, foam boards don’t perform particularly well. In comparison to hard boards, foam boards are much slower, so they might not be the best if you want to become a pro. Compared to other boards, they are made of EPS foam and are relatively cheaper.

 

How To Start Paddle Boarding As A Beginner

Learning paddle boarding is easy and simple. Even as a complete newbie you can grasp the basics quickly since there are only a few steps to start paddle boarding. Just make sure to not give up on your first fall and stand up right away for an ethereal experience.

 

1.     Checking Safety Measures

The first thing you need to do before going into the water is to have all your equipment readily available with you.

• • Check the weather forecast. The tides shouldn’t be too high and the water should be calm.

• • Make sure that your board is wide enough and comfortable for you to stand on.

• • Wear your SUP leash. A leash will keep you attached to the board in case of a fall.

 

2.     Standing Up on the Board

The next step is to get your paddle board out on the water and try to balance yourself on it.

• • Kneel on the board and place your hands on it to make standing up on it easier.

• • After that, slowly stand up and place your feet where your knees are.

• • Ensure that you are precisely in the center of the board. Some boards also have a mark that indicates where you should stand. Furthermore, a wider board could make it easier for you to find your balance on the board.

• • Once you are standing, place your feet straight ahead and parallel to one another.

• • Keep your back completely straight and your knees slightly bent.

• • Your posture should be steady, and you should be looking straight ahead.

• • Keep your head up; looking down could throw you off balance.

 

3.     Holding The Paddle

There are two things to keep in mind for holding the paddle correctly:

• • Your paddle should be angled toward the nose of the board.

• • If you are paddling on your right side, use your left hand to grip the top of your paddle, and with your right hand hold the shaft.

 

4.     Learning The Strokes

So you’re into the water and standing up right now what? Well, now the real fun begins. To start paddling into the water you will need to learn a few strokes. There are three strokes that you’ll need to learn; forward stroke, reverse stroke, and sweep stroke.

Forward Stroke: The most important stroke is the forward stroke because it allows you to go deeper into the water. To perform the forward stroke, place the paddle over the water’s surface and angle the blade forward. Then plunge your paddle into the water and push it backward in your direction. Remove the paddle from the water, re-submerge it, and push it toward you. Repeat this procedure.  Remember to glide it just past your feet, not too far from you.

Reverse Stroke: If you use a reverse stroke, you can go backward, turn around, or slow down. A reverse stroke is very easy to learn. All you have to do is make the forward stroke go backward. Immerse your blade near the tail of the board behind your feet and move it to the front or nose of the board. Your board will travel in the direction you have paddled.

Sweep Stroke: A sweeping stroke will assist in turning your board. Bend your knees and submerge your paddle in the water to perform a sweep stroke. Your blade should not be facing forward, but rather the side of your board. Then, sweep your paddle from the front or nose of your board to the tail, making an arc or semicircle in the water. When you sweep in the right direction, your board will turn left, and when you sweep in the left direction, your board will turn right.

 

Paddle Boarding Tips For Beginners

Paddleboarding is a relatively simple skill that anyone can pick up quickly. To prevent any inconvenience, there are a few things you should be aware of before paddling. We’re going to share some tips on how to avoid some common mistakes that almost all new paddle boarders make so that you can have a more enjoyable and hassle-free experience.

1. • Hold the paddle correctly by gripping the top with one hand and the shaft with the other.

• • Make sure to check the forecast before planning paddle boarding. As a beginner, paddle in calm and flat water.

• • Never look down at your feet or into the water while paddling; this will make you lose your balance. Always look forward to the horizon.

• • Make sure that your board is the right size for you and is comfortable.

• • Never paddle in a crowded area. As a beginner, choose an less crowded place so that you don’t disrupt others, but also make sure you’re not completely alone if it’s your first time, and always wear your life vest.

• • Always keep safety measures with you, like a GPS and a whistle, in case you need help.

• • Once you are done paddling, do not leave your board in direct sunlight. Store it in a shaded place.

• • If using an inflated board, ensure that you have inflated the board to its recommended PSI.

• • Do not give up in case you fall since you will fall at some point. Just remember to wear your leash and stand up confidently again.

• • Make sure you’re wearing the right type of clothing and carrying water or snacks on your board if you’re paddling somewhere too far since you’ll get exhausted.

 

You Are Now Ready To Hop Into The Water And Experience Unlimited Fun!

 

Takeaway

If you enjoy water sports but are reluctant to take risks, paddle boarding is the safest alternative for you. Paddle boarding provides all of the fun of surfing and water touring while being much easier and less dangerous than other water sports. To get started in the water, you’ll need to find the right board for you and learn some basic strokes. Once that is done, you are ready to enjoy the lake or calm ocean endlessly.