Don’t be that person, whether you’re a guy or a girl. If you follow our list of 12 suggestions for beginner stand up paddle boarders, you can prevent making the blunders that first-time paddle boarders are most likely to make. This information could be useful for your upcoming paddle boarding excursions, regardless of whether you are renting a stand-up paddle board (SUP) and paddle, you have recently purchased your own gear, or you have already been out paddling a few times.
1. Begin on calm waters
Selecting a calm, flat body of water to practice on can assist you in becoming accustomed to standing on the board as well as developing your sense of balance. You will be able to get used to the sensation of being on a paddleboard and hone your sense of balance if you begin your training in placid waters because you won’t have to worry about adjusting to situations such as turbulent water or high winds.
2. Ensure that you are dressed appropriately
When stand-up paddleboarding, it is essential to wear clothing that is breathable, quick-drying, and lightweight, as well as shoes that offer a good grip on the board. While you are on the board, this will assist you remain comfortable and prevent you from slipping and falling.
3. Make sure you are using the appropriate paddle
It is critical to use a paddle that is proportionate to your height. Incorrect form, which can lead to discomfort and even possible injury, can be caused by a paddle that is either too long or too short. Be sure to adjust your paddle as necessary to ensure that you are using it correctly and that it is comfortable.
4. Keep A Wide Stance
Maintain a wide stance by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart on the board while keeping a slight bend in your knees. When you are on the board, you should stand in this manner. This stance will assist you in keeping your balance and giving you greater control over the board.
5. Focus On The Horizon
Keep your focus on something in the distance to help you keep your balance and avoid feeling dizzy. If you keep your attention on something in the distance, it will help you avoid feeling dizzy. Looking at the ground or at your feet can make you feel unsteady and dizzy. Looking down at the water can have the same effect.
6. Engage your core muscles
When stand-up paddleboarding, it is important to engage your core muscles in order to help you maintain balance and stability on the board. You will also be able to save more energy and paddle more effectively as a result of this.
7. Keep a calm and collected demeanor
Resist the urge to stiffen up when paddling. You may avoid getting tired and enhance your technique by simply relaxing your arms, shoulders, and hands. Getting tense increases the likelihood that you will become tired more quickly and can potentially lead to discomfort or even harm.
8. Learn the appropriate techniques for paddling
Learning the proper techniques for paddling from a trained instructor will help you develop your skills and make the most of the time you spend on the water. If you want to get the most out of your paddleboarding experience, getting some pointers and guidance from a trained professional is a good idea.
9. Take regular pauses
It is important to prevent injury and exhaustion by taking regular rests and stretching periodically. The activity of paddleboarding can be strenuous; therefore, it is important to take breaks and stretch in order to maintain comfort and prevent tight muscles.
10. Participate in regular practice
The more you participate in regular practice, the more self-assured and at ease you will become on the board. Your ability to enjoy your time on the water will improve, as will your endurance, if you commit to regular practice to hone your skills. Therefore, make it a point to spend a lot of time on the water and enjoy yourself.
11. Have a working knowledge of the water conditions
Check the conditions of the water before you go out on the water. 11. Know the water conditions This includes the direction and speed of the wind, the temperature of the water, and any potential risks such as currents or barriers that are located underwater.
12.Make use of the appropriate safety equipment
Always make sure you are wearing a life jacket, especially if you are a novice or if the conditions of the water are unsure. As an additional safety measure, you should bring along a waterproof light and a whistle with you at all times. When stand-up paddleboarding, you should avoid taking any risks that aren’t absolutely required and always put your safety first.
Conclusion
To summarize, stand-up paddleboarding is an enjoyable and gratifying pastime that people of varying ages and degrees of expertise can take part in and get something out of. Beginners can get off to a strong start and continue to improve their abilities over time if they follow the advice in this article. These instructions will help guarantee that you have a successful and pleasurable experience paddleboarding by guiding you through everything from selecting the appropriate site and equipment to acquiring the appropriate skills and remaining vigilant while you’re out on the water. Now is the time to grab your paddle and get out on the water!