Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a fantastic way to explore waterways and soak in nature’s beauty. It is also a rewarding activity that promotes physical fitness and mental relaxation.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to help you master the art of standing up on a paddleboard confidently and easily.
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD (SUP) EQUIPMENT
When paddleboarding, choosing a board that suits your skill level, weight, and intended use (like surfing, touring, or yoga) is essential. Having the right equipment makes a difference to your SUP experience - and can be the difference between getting up and staying up or not getting up at all. Here’s some essential equipment to start your SUP journey:
- Stand-up paddleboard (SUP)
- Paddle
- Buoyancy aid
- SUP leash
- SUP double-action pump
- Proper SUP clothing (a wetsuit, swimwear, or boardshorts, sunglasses, sunhat)
- Dry bag
- Water bottle
- Sun Protection
HOW TO STAND UP ON A SUP STEP-BY-STEP
Always start in calm, flat water. We recommend that beginners start with a long and wide board. For most people, a 32-inch wide paddleboard is ideal. Switch to a longer and wider board if your paddleboard feels unstable after standing up on it after a few attempts.
STEP 1. FIND A NICE CALM AND FLAT LOCATION
Check the weather conditions to ensure there are no strong winds or choppy waters that could make it challenging to balance on the paddleboard. Once you’ve found a calm and flat location, it’s time to start your paddleboarding adventure.
STEP 2. ADJUST THE PADDLE TO THE CORRECT HEIGHT
Proper paddle height is crucial for efficient paddling and comfort. A good rule of thumb for beginners is to adjust the paddle to be roughly 6 inches above your head when standing upright.
STEP 3. PADDLE FORWARD ON YOUR KNEES
Start by paddling forward on your knees, positioning yourself in line with the paddleboard’s handles where it is widest. The board is most stable when it’s moving, so use smooth, even strokes to propel yourself through the water.
STEP 4. GET A FEEL FOR THE BOARD
Take a moment to get comfortable on the board and familiarise yourself with its stability. Once you feel comfortable, let’s try and stand up (slowly!).
STEP 5. STAND UP SLOWLY ONE FOOT AT A TIME
When you’re ready to stand up, do so slowly and carefully, lifting one foot at a time from a kneeling position. Use your hands for support on the board as you transition to a standing position.
STEP 6. PLACE YOUR FEET WHERE YOUR KNEES WERE
Place your feet roughly where your knees were positioned, keeping them parallel to each other and shoulder-width apart.
STEP 7. MAINTAIN A WIDE STANCE
To maximise stability, maintain a wide stance, keeping your knees slightly bent and your weight centred over the board to help absorb any movement from the water.
STEP 8. FIND YOUR BALANCE
Take a moment to find your balance and adjust your stance as needed. Engage your core muscles to help stabilise your body and keep your gaze forward to maintain focus.
STEP 9. LOOK FORWARD AND START PADDLING
With your balance secured, look forward and start paddling using smooth, even strokes. Alternate sides with each stroke to move through the water seamlessly. Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the tranquillity of gliding across the water on your paddleboard.
