How to Stand Up on a Paddleboard

Last Updated: August 10, 2021

Part surfing, part kayaking, and a terrific workout for all ages, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great way to get out on the water without needing tons of equipment.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Mounting the Board

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1
Wade out into shallow water and stand directly next to the board. You'll want to be about knee-deep in the water when you mount your board, and you should stand on whichever side of the board you feel most comfortable. ^{[1]
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- Make sure the board is placed so the fin is down in the water.
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The grip of the paddle should be aligned with one side of the board (the side closest to you) and the paddle is touching the water on the other side. ^{[2]
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The hand closest to your body will be gripping both the board and the paddle, which will help you maintain balance as you mount the board.
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4
Lift one knee out of the water, and pull the board toward you. This will allow you to place your knee on the "sweet spot," which is just about the mid-point of the board.
- If your board has a handle, the “sweet spot” will often be where the handle is integrated.
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You should now be in a kneeling position, with both knees on the board, and feel relatively stable. ^{[3]
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6
Consider taking a few strokes in the kneeling position so you can get a feel for the board.
- Check the board positioning as you do this: If the nose end comes out of the water, you're too far back on the board, and if the tail end comes out of the water, you're too far forward. Adjust your position as necessary so your board lies as flat as possible.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Standing Up

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Grip the sides of the board with both hands. ^{[4]
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Continue gripping the board to help stabilize yourself. ^{[5]
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They should be hip-width apart, and you should feel relatively stable. Make sure to bend your knees slightly and keep your core centered over the board.
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^{[6]
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Question

If I fall, how do I remount the board?

Community Answer

Most folks climb on from the side. If that is too difficult, move to the tail and push the back end of the board under your body.

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Tips

Choose your paddleboarding location wisely. You'll want to start off in calm, obstacle-free water so you're able to fully experiment with your board.

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Until you feel comfortable standing, paddling while kneeling is an option.

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If you're going to be paddling in cold water, consider renting a wetsuit.

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Warnings

As with any water sport, the use of a personal flotation device is strongly recommended.

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How to Stand Up on a Paddleboard

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Mounting the Board

Standing Up

Community Q&A

Video

Tips

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