How to start SUP?
Fancy trying something new this summer? You probably won't be surprised to read in our article that water sports are the perfect vacation idea. SUP (stand-up paddle) boards have been gaining popularity recently, and we highly recommend them! In this article, you'll learn a little about what SUP is and what it offers the user, as well as how to get started and what to prepare for when deciding on a stand-up paddleboarding adventure. Ready for some valuable advice? Let's get started!
WHAT IS SUP?
SUP is a sport that originated in beautiful Hawaii. As the name suggests, it involves "stand-up paddling." The swimmer propels themselves on a board propelled by a paddle called a paddle. Interestingly, SUP isn't just about casual paddling. You can also practice yoga, fitness, or go fishing on a board. Thanks to their buoyancy, the boards can easily accommodate more than one person, so you can even take a passenger. Paddling is not only incredibly relaxing but also a great full-body workout. Are we tempted? Get your paddleboards ready!
WHAT SHOULD I KNOW AND DO BEFORE I GO ON A BOARD?
Let's start with the basics of a paddleboard. These include: a board, a paddle (or paddle), a fin that attaches to the bottom of the board, a leash that attaches to your ankle, and, of course, a life jacket. We've got everything. Now what? Let's start with adjusting the paddle. Stand up straight and place the paddle on the ground in front of you. Raise either arm up and adjust the paddle so it reaches the wrist of your raised arm. Done? Grab the board by the handle and carry it to the water. Remember, this is a large piece of equipment, so the wind may interfere. Point the tip of the board directly into the direction of the wind and face the water. Lay the board on the shore, raise the tail so the fin clears the ground, and launch your board.
WE ARE GETTING BALANCE
Beginnings can be challenging. We recommend patience. Start in a kneeling position. Place your paddle perpendicular to the board. Step onto the board, holding the paddle, and kneel. Place the paddle on your knees and gain balance. Feel the board's movement and your weight. You can begin paddling gently in this position. Once you get used to it, try standing up. Place your feet parallel to the length of the board, on either side of the carrying handle. You should be standing exactly in the center of the SUP. Bend your knees slightly. Again, slowly and calmly feel your weight and the board's behavior. If you feel yourself wobbling significantly, use the paddle to regain balance. Grip it firmly in both hands, perpendicular to the board, like a circus performer walking a tightrope. Take your time. Slowly regain your balance and get comfortable.
WE ARE STARTING TO SWIMMING
This is the final stage! You've come a long way. What do we do now? Get your position right. Your knees should be slightly bent – they'll provide adequate cushioning for paddling. Keep your back straight, and use your hips and knees as well when paddling. Don't overreach with the paddle. You'll get tired and won't go any faster, and you'll only get a backache. Grab the top handle of the paddle with your right hand and the stick with your left. To paddle straight, paddle one side at a time. Your hands on the paddle should be the same distance apart as your shoulders. Paddle on one side. If you start to turn too much, switch hands and paddle on the other. Make sure you're using the largest surface area of the paddle blade (the part you're immersed in the water). You need to be prepared for a few falls at first. If you have a life jacket, you have nothing to worry about. Don't be afraid of falling into the water. If you fall on the board, you might bruise yourself. Also, be careful with your paddle, but it's best not to let go of it so it doesn't float too far away from the board.
That's all there is to it! With these tips, you'll soon be the master of lakes, rivers, and seas. Grab your paddle and board and hit the water. With SUP, even your local lake will feel like you're in Hawaii. See you on the water!
WHAT IS SUP?
SUP is a sport that originated in beautiful Hawaii. As the name suggests, it involves "stand-up paddling." The swimmer propels themselves on a board propelled by a paddle called a paddle. Interestingly, SUP isn't just about casual paddling. You can also practice yoga, fitness, or go fishing on a board. Thanks to their buoyancy, the boards can easily accommodate more than one person, so you can even take a passenger. Paddling is not only incredibly relaxing but also a great full-body workout. Are we tempted? Get your paddleboards ready!
WHAT SHOULD I KNOW AND DO BEFORE I GO ON A BOARD?
Let's start with the basics of a paddleboard. These include: a board, a paddle (or paddle), a fin that attaches to the bottom of the board, a leash that attaches to your ankle, and, of course, a life jacket. We've got everything. Now what? Let's start with adjusting the paddle. Stand up straight and place the paddle on the ground in front of you. Raise either arm up and adjust the paddle so it reaches the wrist of your raised arm. Done? Grab the board by the handle and carry it to the water. Remember, this is a large piece of equipment, so the wind may interfere. Point the tip of the board directly into the direction of the wind and face the water. Lay the board on the shore, raise the tail so the fin clears the ground, and launch your board.
WE ARE GETTING BALANCE
Beginnings can be challenging. We recommend patience. Start in a kneeling position. Place your paddle perpendicular to the board. Step onto the board, holding the paddle, and kneel. Place the paddle on your knees and gain balance. Feel the board's movement and your weight. You can begin paddling gently in this position. Once you get used to it, try standing up. Place your feet parallel to the length of the board, on either side of the carrying handle. You should be standing exactly in the center of the SUP. Bend your knees slightly. Again, slowly and calmly feel your weight and the board's behavior. If you feel yourself wobbling significantly, use the paddle to regain balance. Grip it firmly in both hands, perpendicular to the board, like a circus performer walking a tightrope. Take your time. Slowly regain your balance and get comfortable.
WE ARE STARTING TO SWIMMING
This is the final stage! You've come a long way. What do we do now? Get your position right. Your knees should be slightly bent – they'll provide adequate cushioning for paddling. Keep your back straight, and use your hips and knees as well when paddling. Don't overreach with the paddle. You'll get tired and won't go any faster, and you'll only get a backache. Grab the top handle of the paddle with your right hand and the stick with your left. To paddle straight, paddle one side at a time. Your hands on the paddle should be the same distance apart as your shoulders. Paddle on one side. If you start to turn too much, switch hands and paddle on the other. Make sure you're using the largest surface area of the paddle blade (the part you're immersed in the water). You need to be prepared for a few falls at first. If you have a life jacket, you have nothing to worry about. Don't be afraid of falling into the water. If you fall on the board, you might bruise yourself. Also, be careful with your paddle, but it's best not to let go of it so it doesn't float too far away from the board.
That's all there is to it! With these tips, you'll soon be the master of lakes, rivers, and seas. Grab your paddle and board and hit the water. With SUP, even your local lake will feel like you're in Hawaii. See you on the water!
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