SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is a fun and peaceful sport that enables you to explore the water without swimming or float.
SUP Fishing, SUP Yoga, and SUP Racing are some of the fastest-growing water sports globally. Are you interested in giving it a try? These inflatable stand up paddle board tips can help you get the most out of your time on the water.
#1. Utilize a Leash
When participating in any kind of water activity, one of the most important considerations is safety. When paddleboarding, don’t forget to use a leash to keep yourself attached to your board. When you’re a bit too far from shore, your inflatable stand up paddle board becomes your lifesaver—and if you’re not tied to it, you may quickly lose it in windy or severe circumstances.
#2. Select the Proper Equipment
Like with any other activity, having the proper equipment is critical to your overall pleasure and safety. Ensure you have the appropriate SUP gear for your ability level and the environment you’ll be paddling in before you start to stand up paddleboarding.
#3. Examine the Wind Direction
One of the most essential (but often ignored) paddleboarding advice we can offer you is to pay attention to the wind. Find out the water conditions and weather predictions for the day before you go out on the water.
#4. Learn How to Paddle
One mistake paddleboarders make is holding the paddle improperly. If you’re new to stand up paddleboarding and haven’t received any formal instruction, you should stand up like the bent portion of the blade is facing you. It’ll allow you to “scoop” yourself forward.
As it turns out, that’s not the best technique to wield your paddle since it may create unnecessary splashing and throw you off balance. Turn it around, so the bent portion is facing away from you.
Also, keep your hand positioning in mind. On the paddle, having your hands too close together may restrict the strength of your strokes and possibly cause you to wear out quicker.
#5. Activate Your Core
Another essential paddleboarding skill to remember for beginners is that the actual paddling should be done by your core, not your arms. When compared to your more strong core muscles, your arm muscles will generate considerably less force and will quickly wear out. Keeping your core engaged when paddling can help you paddle more efficiently.
#6. Maintain a Positive Attitude
It’s tough to keep your head up and gaze straight in front of you as a novice since it’s more natural to glance down (perhaps because you’re afraid of falling into the water). However, while paddleboarding, standing upright is critical since it allows you to attain optimum stability.
Standing upon the board is a challenging task, but remaining on it is much more difficult. Avoid gazing down since this may cause you to lose your equilibrium.
At last, make sure you have enough space to move for your own and others’ safety. After all, the ocean (or river/lake, depending on where you intend to paddle) has plenty of space.
