How to stand up on your SUP
Stand Up Paddle in Rameswaram, East Coast India
Here are ten tips on how to stand up on your SUP, practice this under the supervision of an instructor or an experienced paddler. Do not try to do this on your own without supervision. While stand up paddle can be great fun & good exercise you do need to learn the basics with an experienced instructor before you go out long distances. A short paddle away from the shore can be daunting if you do not know the basics- these tips are quick reference for those who are going to sign up for a discover SUP course or learning with an instructor. Always think about how you are going to get back to the shore before venturing out!
10 Tips on how to Stand Up on your SUP
Start off by locating an area on the beach which is sheltered from the wind & has calm flat water, this is key - you want to start this exercise in calm & flat water.
Wear your paddle board leash on your ankle or knee, comfortable yet secure.
Walk into knee deep water to ensure the paddle board fin does not touch the ground.
Hold the rails (sides) of the paddle board and climb on & kneel down ideally close to the centre of the board where the board handle is located.
Paddle around while kneeling to get a feeling of movement. The faster the board moves the more stable you will feel.
Learn how to change directions while paddling forward in just one direction & shifting your weight to the rear of the board. You can also change directions by paddling backwards but this will slow you down & cause some imbalance.
Once you are able to navigate while kneeling down it is time for you to stand up. Do this slowly by keeping your knees bent and back straight while looking at the horizon. When you get some practice you will be able to pop up quickly into the standing position. If you have trouble balancing use your paddle in front of you as a third leg to get balance.
Practice moving in all directions & turning before you venture out further from shore.
For deep water starts, hold on to the board handle, stay flat on the water while kicking your legs to get some thrust, pull your body onto the board & lie down. From this position you can get on your knees & pop up. Do not try to climb up using your knees this will ensure a quick capsize.
Practice standing up on your SUP in all possible conditions. Perfect your deep water starts- this will ensure you are always able get back on your board & come back to safety!
These tips will help you stand up on your board & with practice you will look like a pro! Remember to check on the weather & water conditions before you go out to practice. No two days are alike! If you would like to know the top 10 Places to Stand Up Paddle in India click here.
Stand up paddle boarding or SUP as it’s popularly called, uses a longboard and a paddle. It’s an easier way to surf waves or paddle the waters. The sport is fun when your balance is challenged by ripples or small waves in the water when you get started. In time it’s all part of the fun.