Welcome to the world of stand-up paddle boarding (SUP)! At Isle Surf and SUP, we're passionate about providing you with the knowledge and tools to make your SUP experience enjoyable and safe. One fundamental skill every paddler should master is how to get onto their paddle board with confidence. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of safely mounting your SUP, ensuring a smooth and secure entry into your paddling adventure.
Choose a Suitable Location: Before stepping onto your paddle board, find a calm and shallow area with minimal current. A sandy beach or a gently sloping entry point is ideal.
Prepare Your Paddle Board: Lay your paddle board in the water. Position the board in a way that provides stability, especially if you're a beginner. You'll want to make sure your fin is out of any sand and it not in the way of any objects.
Position Your Paddle: Hold your paddle with one hand on the handle and the other near the center of the shaft. Place the paddle across the board, perpendicular to the water's surface, ensuring the blade is facing away from you.
Approach Your Paddle Board: Stand beside your paddle board in shallow water, facing the bow (front) of the board. Keep a firm grip on the paddle, resting it horizontally across the board for added stability.
Get Onto the Paddle Board: Lift your leading leg and place it near the center of the board, ensuring an even weight distribution in kneeling position and then follow with the next leg. Take a moment to center yourself and find your balance. Maintain a low center of gravity and engage your core muscles for stability. Take a moment to get accustomed to the feeling of being on the water and find your balance.
Stand Up: When you're ready, transition from kneeling to a standing position. To stand up place your paddle perpendicular on the board in front of you and place your hands onto the board for stability. Then place your feet one at a time directly to the center of your board. Your feet should be hip-width apart and at the center of the grab handle for optimal balance and paddle efficiency. Be sure to grab your paddle on the way up. Remember the more momentum you have the more stbale you'll be. Engage your core, keep your knees unlocked, and maintain a relaxed posture. Allow your body to adjust to the subtle movements of the board beneath you.
Start Paddling: Congratulations! You're now on your paddle board, ready to explore.
