We believe that one of the fundamental reasons for the rise in popularity of stand up paddling is that, at its most simple level, anyone can get on board and try paddling with little special instructions. Here, we provide four useful tips to help you stay healthy and make the most of your experience on the water.
Focus on safety
The first and most significant safety advice is to always wear a life jacket and a leash that is suitable for the environment you will be paddling in. Wearing an intrinsically buoyant life jacket is a smart idea for those who aren’t good swimmers or can’t swim. There are several excellent paddling-specific versions on the market that are both easy to wear and do not limit your movements.
If you can swim, an inflatable life jacket is a good option. Belt packs, which are worn around your waist, are the most common inflatable life jackets for stand up paddling, but vests are also available. If you’re using a belt bag, it’s safer to wear it in front so you can easily and quickly inflate it if necessary.
If you’re practicing in a swimming pool, survey the area and check for broken tiles and other possible hazards that unsuspecting kids might step on. Find a reliable tile contractor to repair any damages to keep the environment safe for kids running around.
The leash is also an essential piece of safety gear because it keeps you tied to your board. This is critical because if you do capsize, the speed at which wind or current will detach you from your board is incredible. Keep in mind that leashes come in a variety of sizes, so ensure you’re wearing the right one for the area you’ll be paddling in. In flat water, for example, a coil leash that you can wrap around your calf or ankle is a great option.
Master the proper technique
When you put the paddle on your head, make sure your elbows are bent at a 90-degree angle. This positions your arms in the most efficient and successful paddling position possible.
You can also learn how to correctly use a canted paddle. The blade of the majority of SUP paddles is canted, which means it is bent at another angle from the shaft. The canted paddle should be used with the blade canted forwards.
Practice landing correctly
The third point to remember is to take off and fall on your knees. Inadvertently catching your fin on something is one of the easiest ways to take a major fall from your board, so kneel down while you’re in shallow water.
Location matters
The last piece of advice for stand-up paddleboarders is to choose a good place to paddle. A calm body of water that is protected from the wind and waves and has no motorised boat traffic is suitable for stand up paddling. So there you have it: your top five stand-up paddling recommendations.
