How to Stand-Up Paddleboard

ADVENTURES & ACTIVE LIVING

2 min read

So, you’ve decided to give stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) a try. Maybe you’ve seen those effortlessly cool people gliding across the water on Instagram, looking like serene water yogis. Easy, right? Well, not so fast. If you’re new to the SUP game, your first experience might involve more wobbling than gliding, more splashing than cruising. But fear not, soon you’ll be paddling your way to smooth, sun-soaked success.

Here’s your foolproof, step-by-step guide on how to stand-up paddleboard without turning into a human submarine.

Step 1: Choose the Right Board (Yes, Size Matters)

Before you even step foot in the water, you’ve got to pick the right board. It’s like picking the right pair of shoes—too small, and things get awkward fast; too big, and it feels like you’re dragging a boat behind you.

For beginners, go for a wider, longer board. The wider the board, the easier it is to balance (and the less likely you are to perform accidental water acrobatics). Wider boards are your friend—think of them as the training wheels of SUP.

Step 2: Start Kneeling (Don’t Worry, We All Did)

When you first hit the water, resist the temptation to pop right up like a pro. Instead, start in a kneeling position. Place the board in calm, shallow water, sit on your knees in the middle, and use the paddle to push yourself away from shore. Kneeling will help you get the feel for the board’s movements without doing the full Bambi-on-ice routine.

Step 3: Master the Art of the Stand-Up

Once you’re feeling comfortable kneeling, it’s time to stand. Here’s where things can get a little wobbly, but follow these steps and you’ll be upright in no time:

Place your paddle across the board horizontally in front of you.
Slowly move to a squat position, keeping your hands on the board or paddle for balance.
One foot at a time, place your feet where your knees were. Your feet should be about hip-width apart (basically the paddleboarding equivalent of standing like a strong tree).
Gradually straighten your legs and stand up. And voila—you’re standing! Try not to flail your arms wildly, as tempting as it is.

Remember to keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged for balance. And don’t stare down at your feet like they’re going to betray you. Look ahead to where you’re going—it’s better for your balance, and you’ll look way cooler.

Step 4: Paddling 101

Now that you’re standing (congrats!), it’s time to actually paddle. And trust me, there’s a bit more to it than just dunking the paddle in the water like you’re stirring a giant soup pot.

Hold the Paddle Correctly: The blade should be angled away from you. Yes, it feels counterintuitive, but trust the paddle—it knows what it’s doing.
Proper Hand Placement: Your top hand (the one holding the handle) should be on the opposite side of where you’re paddling. If you’re paddling on the right, your left hand is on top, and vice versa.
Stroke: Dip the paddle into the water near the front of the board, pull it back in one smooth motion, then lift it out. Repeat on the other side to go straight. Remember to switch sides every few strokes so you don’t end up paddling in circles (unless circles are your thing, in which case, go for it!).

Step 5: Find Your Zen (Or at Least Try To)

As you get more comfortable on the board, you’ll find a rhythm with your paddling and balance. You might even start to relax a little. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the sounds of the water, and enjoy the serenity of floating around. There’s something genuinely meditative about SUP when you’re not concentrating on staying dry.

Step 6: Embrace the Wobble (and the Fall)

Spoiler alert: You’re probably going to fall off the board at some point. It happens to everyone (yes, even those Instagram pros). When it does happen, embrace it. Paddleboarding is a water sport, after all! The key is to fall away from your board so you don’t land on it. Just take the plunge, pop back up, and try again.

Step 7: Style Points (Optional, but Fun)

Once you’ve mastered the basics of stand-up paddleboarding, it’s time to add some flair. Try paddling faster for a workout, doing some gentle yoga poses for balance (downward dog on water—yes, it’s a thing), or exploring new waters. The world—or at least the lake—is your oyster.

Final Tips to Look Like a SUP Pro:

Wear a leash: Not to be confused with a fashion statement, the leash keeps your board from floating away if you take an unplanned dip.
Sunscreen, Always: You’re out in the open sun, and the water reflects those rays right back up at you.
Hydrate: Paddleboarding is surprisingly hard work. Bring water (you’re on a board, not a desert island).
Take It Slow: There’s no need to rush. Enjoy the process, and don’t stress about mastering it on your first go.

The Paddleboarding Zen

Stand-up paddleboarding is one of those beautiful paradoxes: a full-body workout that also relaxes your mind. Whether you’re paddling on calm island waters or navigating gentle rivers, it’s the perfect mix of fun, fitness, and a splash of meditative chill.

So, grab a board, take your time, and remember: falling in the water is part of the fun!