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Want to learn how to paddle board standing up? Looking for something a little calmer than surfing that’ll still get your adrenaline pumping? If so, you’re in the right place. While paddle boarding might seem difficult at first, you’ll get the swing of things in no time. In this article, we’ll break down everything you’d ever need to know about learning how to paddle board.
Steps
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Start out in laid-back waters where you won’t be in harm’s way. Finding calm wind is not necessary but always a good idea for your first hours on a board. If you are ‘launching’ your board off of a beach you can easily be swept down the beach and if enough wind is blowing you will see your board can act like a sail. Seek calm water as well; waves make it much more difficult to balance. [1] X Research source
- Comfort is key for first timers! We love launching new paddle boarders into a lazy, well protected river where they can easily make shore if need be.
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Hop on the paddle board face-down and practice kayak paddling. Prone paddling can be used to get further away from the shore and into deeper water. To do so, lie down on the board and lie the paddle vertically along the board with the blade under your chest so it doesn't float away. With one arm on either side of the board, paddle as if you are swimming. [2] X Research source
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Holding the paddle correctly is a big part of paddle boarding. Holding a paddle board paddle is similar to how you would hold a canoe paddle. Place one hand on the T Bar grip at the top of the shaft and the other hand slightly past the middle, closer to the blade. You can switch hands as needed to paddle on both sides to keep the board straight. Make sure the paddle is facing the right way! The angle of the blade should be facing away from you- this will eliminate drag. [3] X Research source
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Use the correct mechanics to paddle your board. Adjust the paddle to the proper height, which is about 8" overhead. Keep your arms relatively straight to get a wider range of motion. You will be using a lot of core strength, more so than your arms. Paddle using a down and back motion, dipping the paddle in the water at the front side of your board and pushing it towards the back side. Switch sides every few paddles to remain straight. [4] X Research source
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Once you’re comfortable on your knees, try standing up. Place the paddle horizontally across the front of your board and place your feet in the center where your knees once were. You should be in a squatting position. Slowly stand up while holding on to your paddle. Keep your knees bent and your feet about shoulder width apart. Your feet should be parallel to each other. One foot in front of the other may make it more difficult to balance. [5] X Research source
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Turn by paddling on one side of the board. Paddle on one side of the board without switching sides until you are facing the direction you want to go. You will turn the opposite direction of the side you are paddling on. [6] X Research source
Community Q&A
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QuestionHow do I go fast on my paddle board?Community AnswerJust use the basic padding method, but do longer strokes. I suggest starting out with medium strokes to get the hang of it, so you don’t over-paddle and fall off.Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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Video
Tips
- If you know you're going to fall, fall to the side away from the board to avoid getting hit by the board or the paddleThanks
- Staying low with bent knees helps to maintain balanceThanks
- Always try to paddle with a friend or have others aroundThanks
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References
- ↑ https://www.leisurepro.com/blog/scuba-guides/10-paddle-boarding-tips-for-beginners/
- ↑ https://barefootsurftravel.com/livemore-magazine/how-to-paddle-on-a-surfboard
- ↑ https://protips.dickssportinggoods.com/sports-and-activities/water-sports/hold-stand-paddleboard-paddle
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9_F-Md5px0
- ↑ https://bearfoottheory.com/stand-up-paddle-boarding-tips/
- ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAdkD-ogdXI
About This Article
Reader Success Stories
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Katherine Windle
Jul 15, 2017
"I went paddle boarding with some friends one day. It was at camp. They already knew how to do it from personal lessons, but I had no clue. I almost ended up on the shore the the complete opposite side of the lake. I rammed into things and got stuck multiple times. My friends were to far away and they didn't come over. I had no clue how to steer, so I hated it. Now, thanks to this article, I have a basic knowledge of how to do so." ..." moreRated this article:
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About This Article
Katherine Windle
Jul 15, 2017
Cheryl McDuffie
Jul 26, 2017