Are you keen to get into the recently trendy sport Stand Up Paddling (SUP)? But you are not yet quite sure whether this is the right thing for you and how exactly you should start? Our series on paddling techniques for SUP newcomers will help you along with some easy to follow instructions for the first steps onto your new SUP board - and if you don't expect too much at first, you will be surprised and delighted how quickly you can experience your first successes in this great pastime!
Step 1
If you are not yet completely sure whether SUP is going to be something for you, do not go rushing into the next surf shop to invest in equipment. As always, the rule should be: rent it first - then buy your own equipment once you are certain. However, whether rented or owned, in order to get to know your board better, first try to find your balance kneeling on the board still on shore.
Step 2
Next, place your feet shoulder-wide on the ribbed structure or in the colour-coded area in the middle of the deck and stand up straight. You hold the paddle in front of you with both hands - this helps to keep your balance.
Step 3
In order to get a feeling for the movements with the paddle, practice them on dry land first. Hold the SUP paddles so that the bent blade points forward away from you. When the right hand is up, the paddle is moved past the left side of the board and vice versa. To paddle effectively, bring the "blade" of the paddle as far forward as possible with your arms outstretched and then guide it parallel to the board up to your hips. Do not just pull with your arms' muscles as this is very exhausting. You should use your entire upper body and the abdominal muscles to make your strokes effective.
Step 4
You haven't lost your balance and now want to try it out in the water? Then let's go! On the water our next lesson will show you how to paddle turns and change direction. The best thing to do first is to find a spot on the water that is calm and has no currents. It should not be overcrowded and there should not be large rocks under water - please also be careful not to paddle in nature reserves! If the water has no standing depth, you should put on a life jacket.
