10 Things to Learn on a SUP

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is more than just standing on a board and paddling. It's a versatile sport that offers a full-body workout, a peaceful way to connect with nature, and a platform for all sorts of adventures. Whether you're a complete beginner or have a few sessions under your belt, here are 10 essential things to learn to truly master your SUP.

1. The Correct Stance and Balance

Before you even start paddling, get comfortable on the board. Your feet should be parallel, about shoulder-width apart, and centered between the edges of the board. Keep your knees slightly bent and your back straight. Look towards the horizon, not at your feet, as this will help with your balance.

2. The Forward Stroke

This is the most fundamental stroke. Reach forward with the paddle, planting the blade fully in the water. Pull the paddle back alongside the board to your feet, then lift it out of the water. Keep your arms relatively straight and use your core to power the stroke, not just your arms.

3. The Reverse Stroke (for stopping)

To stop or slow down, simply do the forward stroke in reverse. Place the paddle in the water behind you and push it forward. This will act as a brake.

4. The Sweep Stroke (for turning)

To turn, use the sweep stroke. Reach forward and place the paddle in the water, then make a long, sweeping arc from the nose of the board to the tail. This will turn the board in the opposite direction of your stroke.

5. Paddling on Your Knees

If the water gets choppy or you're feeling unstable, paddling from your knees is a great option. It lowers your center of gravity and makes you much more stable. It's also a good way to get started if you're nervous about standing up right away.

6. Getting Back on the Board

Falling off is part of the learning process! To get back on, approach the board from the side, near the center. Grab the handle in the middle of the board with one hand and the opposite edge with the other. Kick your legs to propel yourself up and onto the board, aiming to land on your belly. From there, you can get back to your knees and then stand up.

7. The Pivot Turn

This is a more advanced and much faster way to turn. Step back on the board to sink the tail and lift the nose out of the water. This allows you to pivot the board quickly with a simple sweep stroke. It takes practice, but it's an incredibly useful skill.

8. Paddling in a Straight Line

It sounds simple, but it can be tricky for beginners. To avoid zig-zagging, you'll need to switch the side you're paddling on every few strokes. As you get more efficient, you can use subtle corrective strokes to stay on course for longer.

9. Understanding Wind and Current

Your board is heavily affected by wind and current. Always be aware of the conditions. It's generally best to paddle into the wind or current at the beginning of your trip, so you have an easier ride back when you're more tired.

10. The 'SUP Salute'

Okay, this one is just for fun, but it's a great way to test your balance. Try a simple yoga pose like the tree pose or warrior pose on your board. It's a fun challenge and a great way to impress your friends!

Mastering these 10 things will make you a confident and capable paddleboarder, ready for any adventure the water throws your way. So get out there, practice, and most importantly, have fun!