How to Paddle SUP Boards: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide
Paddleboarding is one of the fastest-growing water sports, mostly because it offers a host of benefits, including fun, relaxation, and fitness. Standup paddleboarding (SUP) is a slight variation to the sport that’s stealing the limelight for all the good reasons.
Whether you’re looking to explore calm lakes, ride ocean waves, or practice yoga on water, learning how to paddle SUP boards is great. So, go ahead and learn to stand up paddle board to stay ahead of the game!
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paddling an SUP board, from getting on the board to maintaining the right stance and mastering paddling and SUP techniques.
If you're looking for expert gear to learn how to paddle SUP boards, check out Blu Wave's Learn to Stand Up Paddle Board for high-quality beginner-friendly boards. If you’re a pro, you’ll still have plenty of options to choose from!
Paddling SUP Boards - A Beginner’s Guide
Step 1: Choosing the Right SUP Board and Paddle
Selecting Your Board
Your board choice will depend on how you plan to use it. Here are some common types and who it’s best for:
- All-Around SUPs – Great for beginners, offering balance and stability.
- Touring SUPs – Designed for long-distance paddling with better tracking.
- Inflatable SUPs – Easy to transport and store, ideal for travelers.
- Yoga SUPs – Wider and more stable, perfect for yoga and fitness.
- Surf SUPs – Shorter boards for maneuvering on waves.
For a high-quality SUP paddle board, visit Blu Wave’s Paddle Board Collection.
Selecting Your Paddle
Your paddle should be 6–10 inches taller than you for the best control. Once you have this, it’s easier to learn how to paddle an SUP board.
Adjustable paddles are great for different conditions. Blu Wave offers a range of high-quality paddles, including lightweight carbon paddles that enhance paddling efficiency.
Step 2: Getting on the Board Properly
- Start in Shallow Water – Begin in calm water where you can easily stand.
- Position the Board – Stand next to your board in knee-deep water.
- Climb Onto the Board – Hold the edges, place one knee in the center, then the other.
- Stand Up Gradually – Once balanced, rise slowly, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Find Your Balance – Look forward, not down, and keep your knees slightly bent.
If you’re struggling, sign up for an SUP lesson to improve your balance and technique.
Step 3: Learning to Paddle Correctly
Holding the Paddle
Hold the paddle with one hand on the top grip and the other on the shaft. Keep your arms straight and use your core, not just your arms, for power.
Basic Paddle Strokes
- Forward Stroke – Insert the blade into the water near your feet and pull back in a straight line.
- Reverse Stroke – Move the paddle forward to slow down or stop.
- Sweep Stroke – A wide stroke to help turn the board.
- Draw Stroke – Moves the board sideways.
Practice these strokes on calm water before heading into rougher conditions.
Step 4: Steering and Turning Techniques
Paddling an SUP board in Different Conditions
- Calm Water – Use long, smooth strokes to move efficiently.
- Waves and Wind – Bend your knees slightly and use shorter strokes for control.
- Rivers and Streams – Learn to use draw strokes and adjust stance to navigate currents.
Knowing how to paddle an SUP board in different settings makes your experience more enjoyable and safe.
Step 5: Carrying and Securing Your Paddle and Board
How to Carry Paddle With SUP Board
- Underarm Carry – Hold the board by the center handle and walk with the paddle in the other hand.
- Overhead Carry – Lift the board above your head with both hands, best for long distances.
How to Secure a Second Paddle to SUP Board
If carrying a second paddle, use SUP straps to secure it to your board. Some boards have built-in bungee storage for extra gear.
For paddle storage options, check out Blu Wave’s SUP Accessories. With consistent practice and learning how to paddle SUP boards properly, you get better each time.
Step 6: Safety Tips for SUP Beginners
- Wear a Leash – Keeps you connected to your board if you fall.
- Use a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) – Required by law in many areas.
- Check Weather Conditions – Avoid high winds and strong currents.
- Stay Hydrated – Bring a water bottle for long paddling sessions.
It’s important to also keep safety tips in mind after knowing SUP and how to carry a paddle with a SUP board.
Step 7: Practicing and Improving Your Skills
Join a Paddleboarding Group
Paddleboarding with others is a great way to learn and improve. Many local communities offer paddleboarding meetups and lessons.
Take a Professional Lesson
If you're serious about improving, check out Blu Wave’s Learn to Stand Up Paddle for expert guidance.
Conclusion
Learning how to paddle SUP boards is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By choosing the right board, mastering basic strokes, and practicing proper balance, you’ll quickly gain confidence on the water.
If you’re looking for high-quality SUP boards, paddles, and accessories, check out Blu Wave’s SUP Collection to find the perfect gear for your needs.
Blu Wave SUP has been a leading designer and manufacturer of stand-up paddleboards (SUP) in Wasaga Beach, ON, Canada, since 2010. The brand offers high-quality and high-performance SUPs for best experiences. It also offers rentals and a range of lessons and excursions for individuals and groups.
Regardless of whether you’re buying SUP paddle boards or accessories, you can enjoy premium support and 1 year warranty on all products!
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