Paddleboarding is all about standing on a board and gliding across the water using a paddle for propulsion. It is a beautiful and exhilarating way to be at one with nature; it is a sport that is growing in popularity as well. If you’re interested in trying it, this beginner’s guide to paddleboarding should help. It will cover the basics and hopefully set you on your way to an exciting aquatic adventure.
Choosing Your Paddle Board
Before embarking on your paddleboarding journey, you’ll need a reliable board to keep you afloat. There are different types of paddleboards, including all-around, touring, and inflatable. As a beginner, an all-around paddleboard is highly recommended. These boards are versatile, stable, and ideal for learning the ropes.
If you’re not ready to commit to buying your own board just yet, you can always consider paddle board rental first. According to the experts at Canyon Sports based out of Salt Lake City, renting lets you test different boards to find that perfect fit without breaking the bank doing it.
The Art of Balancing
It is best to start by practicing on land, so the first thing to do is lay the board on a flat surface, like grass or sand, and try standing on it. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, the knees slightly bent, and look straight ahead of you.
When you feel comfortable on land, you can then hit the water. But don’t just try to stand up on the board straight away. You need to learn how to balance first. Start by kneeling on the board and paddling a short distance. When you are ready, stand up one foot at a time, all the time maintaining the same stance you practiced on land. Don’t panic if you wobble or fall as this is all part of the learning process.
Mastering the Paddle
No paddleboarding adventure would be complete without a trusty paddle. You need to make sure that the paddle you select is the right height for you. Experts recommend that you pick one that is about 8-10 inches longer than your height.
To paddle correctly, hold the paddle with one hand on the grip at the top and the other hand around halfway down the shaft. Keep your arms straight and use your core to power the strokes. As you paddle, switch sides every few strokes or so to maintain a straight course.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
You should start your paddleboarding adventure slowly by exploring calm bodies of water, perhaps a lake or slow-moving river. As you gain confidence and experience, you can venture into choppier waters (like bays and open ocean).
Paddleboarding also offers an excellent opportunity to connect with nature, so as you glide through the waters look for wildlife and don’t forget to take a moment to simply breathe and appreciate the beauty around you.
Staying Safe
When it comes to any water-based activity, safety should always be a top priority. Always use a personal flotation device and a leash to keep the board close. It is crucial that you check weather conditions before heading out, and definitely avoid paddling in extreme conditions. It’s also good advice to take a friend with you, especially at the beginning.
Conclusion
As you embark on your paddleboarding journey, remember the fact that everyone was once a beginner. Enjoy the learning process, which will include both moments of triumph and inevitable stumbles. Soon enough, you’ll be the one inspiring others to join the world of paddleboarding. With the right equipment and a focus on safety, you’ll soon be traversing the waters in style.
