Perfect Your Paddling - 3 SUP Tips to Improve Your Technique

Summer is just around the corner, so there is no better time to make your first foray into the world of Stand-Up Paddleboarding. While we love the enthusiasm shown by new boarders, there are a few common mistakes you see from people new to our pastime. In an effort to educate the newest members of our family, we have put together three vital SUP tips for beginner boarders.

Activate Your Lower Body

Stand-up paddleboarding is a full-body exercise, but it is very common to see a lot of arm movement in beginners trying to generate a powerful stroke. As is the case in the majority of sports, activating your lower body is key to generating power.

Newbies are often tipped forward at the waist with their legs rigid on the board, resulting in a lot of energy expended but not a lot of progress. Posterior chain muscles are key to a stable and powerful platform, so you need to ensure your back, glutes, hamstrings and calves play a role in paddling. Start by bending your knees and keeping your arms straight when you paddle, concentrating on engaging your back and twisting your core. You will soon find that you are making better progress with less energy expenditure; your back muscles are going to ache in the morning, but it won’t take long to build those up.

Grip and Reach to Generate Power

Once you have found and got used to a stable and powerful stance, you can think about paddling technique. Again, your arms should not be the main source of your power, but should act as levers for the muscles in your posterior chain that do all the work.

A wide grip on your paddle is necessary for power and balance, but don’t be afraid to experiment a bit to work out what is best for you. Remember to reach as far forward as comfortably possible when paddling, and don’t drag the paddle too far past your feet before pulling it out of the water. Get yourself into a rhythm where the blade of the paddle is fully submerged every time you put it in the water.

Keep Your Eyes on the Skies

When first learning to SUP, the temptation is to look down at your board to see if it is remaining stable. If you do this, you need to kick the habit fast - your movements follow where you are looking, and it is easy for your technique to get sloppy if your eyes are on your board and not the horizon. One of the best SUP tips we can give beginners is to not be afraid of falling. Take the time to learn and master the fundamentals, because it doesn’t take long for bad habits to stick.

Beginner Boards and Accessories from Ride the Tide

Ride The Tide Paddle Board Co. are excited to offer discounted SUP packages for only $990! Packages include a Ride The Tide Paddle Board, Adjustable Paddles, FCS Fin Set, Deck Pad and for a limited time, a free Protection Pack valued at $250. Our team can provide SUP tips and detailed advice on the best board to suit your needs. To get in contact, you can reach Dean at dean@ridethetide.com.au or 0403 549 702.