Rookie Mistakes to Avoid in Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Tap to Read ➤ Joe Parker

Paddle boarding is not hard, per se. There might be people that struggle to balance on the paddleboard but most people can get used to it very quickly. As easy as it is, there are still some common mistakes one might make as a beginner. Here are some rookie mistakes to avoid.

Buying the Wrong Equipment

There are two kinds of stand up paddle boards: rigid board and inflatables with different price tags and performances. Figure out what you want from the sport before buying a paddle board. Rigid boards have better performance but inflatables are cheaper, easier to transport and more durable.

Paddle Board Alone While You're Still a Beginner

While paddle boarding isn't dangerous per se. There might be accidents during your SUP session. Bring a friend or family to accompany you so that you can have someone to help when you are in distress. This is important if you paddle in a remote place.

Checking the Weather First

The weather can have a great impact on your SUP trip. Try to avoid going out on a windy or rainy day. There are places that have strong wind and tide at a certain period of time. Make sure you check the weather of the spot you are heading to.

Use Paddle Wrongly

Not paying attention to the side of the blade facing forward makes the stroke less efficient. Keep the paddle blade forward as shown.

Choose the Wrong Place to Start

As a beginner, you might want to avoid choppy water because it could make balancing on the paddle board unnecessarily hard. Usually, it's suggested that newbies start in fairly calm waters to first learn how to balance on the board quickly.

Conclusion

Paddle boarding is actually great for relaxing and even bodybuilding. Beginners might encounter some difficulties but they can be easily overcome if you know how to deal with them. Be sure to get your first stand up paddle board from a trusted SUP brand like Goosehill inflatable SUP board or redpaddle.