Getting Started with Stand Up Paddleboarding: A Beginner’s Guide

Getting Started with Stand Up Paddleboarding: A Beginner’s Guide

jamesibbotson
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Stand up paddleboarding, SUP if you’re into acronyms, has taken off across the UK. People love it for different reasons. Some want peace and quiet on the water, others just want a fun workout. Either way, it’s easy to pick up and pretty satisfying once you get going. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get started.

1. Essential Gear for Beginners

Before you grab a paddle and jump in, let’s talk about what you actually need. A lot of people rent gear at first, which is smart, but knowing the basics helps you stay safe (and dry).

  • The Board: If you’re new, go for a board that’s wide and stable. Inflatable SUPs (iSUPs) are super popular, easy to carry around and they don’t feel flimsy when you pump them up properly.
  • The Paddle: Your paddle should be about 6 to 8 inches taller than you. Hold it with one hand on the top (that’s the T-grip) and your other hand halfway down the shaft. That’s how you get the most control and power.
  • The Leash: Don’t skip this. The leash keeps you connected to your board if you fall in. For calm water, an ankle leash does the trick. On rivers or moving water, go for a quick-release waist leash, it’s safer.
  • Buoyancy Aid: Always wear a personal flotation device. It doesn’t matter if you’re a strong swimmer. Just do it.

2. Mastering the Basics: From Kneeling to Standing

No need to rush. Most people start out kneeling to get used to how the board feels. That’s normal.

  • Start Kneeling: Kneel in the middle of the board, near the carry handle. Keep your knees about hip-width apart.
  • The Transition: When you’re ready, put your hands in front of you on the board. Move your feet, one at a time, to where your knees were.
  • Rise Slowly: Stand up bit by bit, knees slightly bent. Don’t stare down at your feet, it actually makes you wobblier. Look out at the horizon instead.
  • Start Paddling: Get moving right away. Paddling helps you keep your balance, so don’t just stand there.

3. Essential Paddling Techniques

It’s not just about flailing your arms around. A little technique goes a long way.

  • Forward Stroke: Keep your arms fairly straight and use your core to pull the paddle back toward your feet.
  • Turning: Try the sweep stroke. Stick the paddle in near the nose of your board and sweep it out in a wide arc toward the tail.
  • Falling Safely: If you feel yourself going in, aim to fall away from the board, and fall flat. That way, you’re less likely to hit anything underwater.

Getting a lesson from professionals is a great way to get the hang of all this. You can find your nearest delivery centre on our finder tool.

4. Staying Safe on the Water

Don’t skip this part, staying safe matters. Here are five things you should always do:

  • Wear your buoyancy aid.
  • Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
  • Keep your phone on you, in a waterproof pouch.
  • Check the weather before you leave. Offshore winds can push you out farther than you think.
  • Know your limits. Stick to flat, sheltered water while you’re still learning.

5. Where to Go

The UK’s packed with gorgeous places to paddle. If you’re new, look for canals or sheltered lakes. They’re calmer and less intimidating.

  • Canals: Try the Peak Forest Canal, nice and sheltered, and no locks to mess with.
  • Lakes: The Lake District and Norfolk Broads are both beautiful and beginner-friendly.
  • PaddlePoints: Check out the PaddlePoints map. It’ll help you find places to launch, routes to try, and what licenses you need.

One last thing, most inland waterways in the UK need a license. A Paddle UK membership sorts that out for over 4,500km of water.