Have you ever heard of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? It's a super fun activity that provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, whether it be a serene lake, a meandering river, or the expansive ocean. The world is catching on to this activity's popularity, and it's easy to see why - SUP is an excellent full-body workout that engages muscles you might not have known existed while offering an enjoyable, social way to stay active.

EQUIPMENT

Before you start on your paddleboarding journey, it is crucial to gather all the necessary equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Let's delve into what you'll need to make the most of your experience on the water:

1. Paddleboard. The paddleboard is the foundation of your experience. As a beginner, you will want to opt for a wider and more stable board that allows you to stand and balance with ease. To select the best board for you, consider your weight, the type of water you'll be paddling on, and your skill level. You can either purchase your own board or rent one from a local store, whichever suits you best.

2. Paddle. Once you've found a board, it's time to choose your paddle. Paddles come in all shapes and sizes, but for your first one, you'll want something that is adjustable and feels comfortable in your grip. A paddle that is too heavy or too long can tire you out quickly, making your paddle boarding experience less enjoyable.

3. Leash. It is crucial to have a leash that tethers you to the board in the event of a fall, to prevent you from drifting away. The leash should be of good quality and securely attached to your ankle or calf, and the board.

4. PFD. A Personal Floatation Device (PFD) is an essential piece of equipment to ensure your safety on the water. PFDs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, we cover the right type of PFD to invest in in our Choosing the right PFD article. Ensure you select the right type of PFD for your paddleboarding adventure, and that it fits you well, so it does not restrict your movement.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PADDLEBOARD (SUP)

Choosing your first paddle board can be overwhelming because there are numerous options available on the market, each with its unique features and specifications. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a paddle board that will offer stability, balance, and maneuverability while learning the ropes.

1. Board size. Size is one of the most important factors to consider. The board's size can significantly impact its stability in the water, which can affect how well you'll be able to maintain your balance. As a general rule of thumb, the wider the board the more stable it’ll be. Thickness translates to volume, the larger the volume the more weight the board can carry. It’s important to find a board that will accommodate your weight plus any extra gear you plan to take with you. The length of the board will play a part in how fast the board moves through the water.

2. Board Shape. The shape of the board can also influence its stability and maneuverability. A flat or round nose (planing hull), for example, will provide greater stability, making it easier to balance, while a pointed nose (displacement hull) will allow the board to cut through the water more quickly. Similarly, a wider tail can increase stability, but a narrower tail can enhance maneuverability.

3. Construction. Another important factor to consider is the board's construction. There are various materials from which paddle boards can be made, like fiberglass, epoxy, PVC, plastic, and foam. Each of these materials has its own unique advantages. Fiberglass and epoxy boards are relatively lightweight and durable, however they can be quite expensive to buy and more difficult to transport. Whereas inflatable boards are extremely durable, easy to store, and highly portable. Foam boards can be a good choice for beginners as they provide a cushioned landing when falling on the board and are relatively inexpensive, but they do come with the same difficulties to transport as they are a hard board.

4. Board weight. Paddleboards vary in weight depending on the construction, typically speaking the heavier boards are more durable, while the lightweight constructions tend to be lighter but more prone to dings and scratches. Shop around to get your perfect balance between weight and performance.

Have you ever heard of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? It's a super fun activity that provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, whether it be a serene lake, a meandering river, or the expansive ocean. The world is catching on to this activity's popularity, and it's easy to see why - SUP is an excellent full-body workout that engages muscles you might not have known existed while offering an enjoyable, social way to stay active.

EQUIPMENT

Before you start on your paddleboarding journey, it is crucial to gather all the necessary equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Let's delve into what you'll need to make the most of your experience on the water:

1. Paddleboard. The paddleboard is the foundation of your experience. As a beginner, you will want to opt for a wider and more stable board that allows you to stand and balance with ease. To select the best board for you, consider your weight, the type of water you'll be paddling on, and your skill level. You can either purchase your own board or rent one from a local store, whichever suits you best.

2. Paddle. Once you've found a board, it's time to choose your paddle. Paddles come in all shapes and sizes, but for your first one, you'll want something that is adjustable and feels comfortable in your grip. A paddle that is too heavy or too long can tire you out quickly, making your paddle boarding experience less enjoyable.

3. Leash. It is crucial to have a leash that tethers you to the board in the event of a fall, to prevent you from drifting away. The leash should be of good quality and securely attached to your ankle or calf, and the board.

4. PFD. A Personal Floatation Device (PFD) is an essential piece of equipment to ensure your safety on the water. PFDs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, we cover the right type of PFD to invest in in our Choosing the right PFD article. Ensure you select the right type of PFD for your paddleboarding adventure, and that it fits you well, so it does not restrict your movement.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PADDLEBOARD (SUP)

Choosing your first paddle board can be overwhelming because there are numerous options available on the market, each with its unique features and specifications. Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting a paddle board that will offer stability, balance, and maneuverability while learning the ropes.

1. Board size. Size is one of the most important factors to consider. The board's size can significantly impact its stability in the water, which can affect how well you'll be able to maintain your balance. As a general rule of thumb, the wider the board the more stable it’ll be. Thickness translates to volume, the larger the volume the more weight the board can carry. It’s important to find a board that will accommodate your weight plus any extra gear you plan to take with you. The length of the board will play a part in how fast the board moves through the water.

2. Board Shape. The shape of the board can also influence its stability and maneuverability. A flat or round nose (planing hull), for example, will provide greater stability, making it easier to balance, while a pointed nose (displacement hull) will allow the board to cut through the water more quickly. Similarly, a wider tail can increase stability, but a narrower tail can enhance maneuverability.

3. Construction. Another important factor to consider is the board's construction. There are various materials from which paddle boards can be made, like fiberglass, epoxy, PVC, plastic, and foam. Each of these materials has its own unique advantages. Fiberglass and epoxy boards are relatively lightweight and durable, however they can be quite expensive to buy and more difficult to transport. Whereas inflatable boards are extremely durable, easy to store, and highly portable. Foam boards can be a good choice for beginners as they provide a cushioned landing when falling on the board and are relatively inexpensive, but they do come with the same difficulties to transport as they are a hard board.

4. Board weight. Paddleboards vary in weight depending on the construction, typically speaking the heavier boards are more durable, while the lightweight constructions tend to be lighter but more prone to dings and scratches. Shop around to get your perfect balance between weight and performance.

These boards are all great options for those looking to buy their first paddleboard, they are stable, durable, and designed for beginners with the capacity for progression. They are also made with high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

It's a good idea to rent or borrow a paddleboard before making a purchase, this will allow you to try a variety of boards and find one that is comfortable and works for you. By choosing the right paddle board and equipment, you'll have a more enjoyable experience on your journey of learning to paddleboard.

PADDLE

A SUP paddle is the next piece of equipment on the list. You’ll want to choose a paddle that is the right length, has a comfortable grip and is lightweight. Here are the things to consider when buying a paddle:

Type: There are adjustable paddles and fixed paddles, adjustable paddles allow you to adjust the length of the paddle shaft, while fixed paddles cannot be adjusted in length. The adjustable type of paddle is a great option for those starting out that haven't quite perfected their length-to-paddle-comfort ratio yet, they also make a great option for families and couples who will be sharing equipment. Fixed-length SUP paddles tend to be lighter as they do not have the adjustment part, and are usually made from more expensive materials and require cutting the paddle down to the correct size before setting it permanently.

Length: Getting the length of your SUP paddle right is important as a correctly sized paddle will be more comfortable and efficient to paddle with, helping to maximize your time on the water.

SUP LEASH

A SUP leash is a super important piece of equipment and every paddleboarder should own one. They tether you to your board, so you stay connected in any unexpected conditions and keep the board from drifting away should you fall off. There are different styles of SUP leashes, some attach at the ankle or just below the knee and are great for flat water paddling and surfing. However, for moving water you will use a quick release leash that attaches to your PFD or waist belt so you can detach yourself should the leash become entangled in downed trees or rocks.

How to install a SUP leash.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)

A PFD is required by law in most countries. It's important to understand the laws in effect in your area before taking to the water. In the U.S the Coast Guard requires you to have a PFD on board, whether you choose to wear it or not is your choice, but children under 12 must wear one.

There are a couple of different styles of PFD that work well for paddleboarding, standard life vests and inflatable waist belts, both are great options:

Standard PFD’s: Standard PFDs look like vests made with foam that have adjustable straps on the shoulders and sides. These types of PFD are very versatile and are used across a number of different watersports, including canoeing, kayaking and fishing. They remain buoyant at all times and a lot of standard PFDs even have pockets for storing additional items like sunscreen, snacks etc.

Inflatable Waist Belts: This type of PFD is folded away neatly into a waist pack and inflates using a CO2 cartridge. There are manual and automatic inflation belts, with the manual type, you will manually deploy the inflation, the automatic works when submerged in water. The main advantage of these types of PFD is that they don’t restrict your range of movement and wont keep you warm on a hot day, however they do require some maintenance to ensure proper operation.

When buying a PFD choose one that fits properly and is designed to float your weight.

Why you should wear a PFD while paddleboarding.

CLOTHING

If it's hot and sunny it's important to wear clothing that will protect you from the sun and material that performs well in the water, a rash guard and swim shorts are a perfect combo. If you choose just to wear a swimsuit, be sure to team it with a high factor sunscreen that is waterproof and re-apply it often. A sun cap and sunglasses attached to a retainer will help protect you from the glare off the water too.

If the temperatures are more mild you can opt for a wetsuit, drysuit or thicker layers with neoprene booties. Try to avoid materials like cotton that have minimal insulating properties.

What to wear paddleboarding.

What to wear for winter paddleboarding.

PADDLING TECHNIQUE

Now that you have acquired the right equipment, let's look at the basics of paddle boarding technique. We do recommend you seek the guidance of a seasoned instructor during your initial attempts at paddle boarding, as they have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can prove invaluable in correcting and refining your technique. Head to our SUP Schools & Instructors page to find an instructor near you.

Standing on the board.

Always launch your paddleboard in calm, flat waters. Carry your paddleboard into knee deep water using the central carry handle, be sure that the fin is clear of any underwater obstacles or rocks. Once in the water, carefully place your paddle horizontally on the board, between the middle and the nose, climb onto the board assuming a kneeling position with both hands placed over the top of the shaft in a shoulder width position.

Beginners may choose to paddle the board in a kneeling position initially, while they gain stability and confidence. If you feel ready to try standing on the board, paddle in the kneeling position a few strokes away from the shore into deeper water before attempting to stand. This way in the event that you fall off the board, you’ll have deep water to land in. Slowly begin to stand up by placing the paddle back to the horizontal position across the board and placing both hands, shoulder width apart over the shaft. From here, lift your chest and bring one foot forwards, shoulder width apart around the center of the board. Stabilize yourself and then bring the other foot to match. Take hold of your paddle and begin to rise, engaging your core and straightening your back. Continue until you are standing but keep a slight bend in the knees, this is important so you can absorb small waves and movements without falling off.

Pro Tip: It helps to look ahead rather than at your feet when standing up!

Balance.

Maintaining balance while paddling is key to staying on the board, here are some pointers to help you stay on top of the water.

• Carefully position your feet so that they are parallel, hip-width apart and over the center of the board. Make sure they are spaced evenly over the deck so as to distribute your weight equally.

• Keep your toes pointing forward, your knees slightly bent and your back straight. Keeping the knees soft will allow you to absorb small waves and impacts.

• Try to maintain a gaze that is in the distance, looking ahead rather than down at your feet. This will help massively with your balance. Try to look ahead where you want to go.

• When paddling your feet should remain in the same position, try to move at the hips through each paddle stroke.

How to keep your paddleboard tracking straight.

Forward paddling technique.

The forward paddle stroke is the basic stroke that will move your board forwards through the water.

1. Your hands should be shoulder width apart down the paddle shaft. If you will be paddling on the right side your right hand will be lower on the shaft with your left hand on the T-grip at the top of the shaft. If you plan to paddle on the left, the opposite will be true.

2. Start the stroke by reaching as far forwards with your bottom hand, lifting the top hand back towards you to keep the shaft vertically aligned. As you extend forwards, twist your core to allow maximum reach. Keep your head raised with your focus on a static object in the distance and the knees soft with a slight bend.

3. Next, plant the stroke by driving the whole blade of the paddle into the water, keeping your back straight, core engaged and still focusing in the distance. Your hands should be stacked vertically on top of each other.

4. Now pull the paddle through the water, twisting your core and driving through the stroke with your top hand. Once the paddle blade is in line with your hips,exit the stroke and return to the starting position.

Pro Tip: Keeping the stroke close to the rail of the board will help prevent the board from turning and keep you tracking straight.

It's good to practice paddling on both sides, as when you start to paddle for longer distances you’ll want to change sides periodically to reduce fatigue or match the conditions.

How to keep your paddleboard tracking straight.

The Sweep Stroke.

The sweep stroke is a technique used to change the direction of the paddleboard when paddling. You can perform forwards and backwards sweep strokes in order to control the direction of your SUP.

1. To initiate a sweep stroke, plant the blade in the water towards the nose of the paddleboard on the opposite side to the direction you want to turn, keeping your knees soft and engaging your core. I.e if you want the board to turn to the left place the paddle in the water on the right hand side of the board.

2. Twist your top hand so the face of the blade starts to face away from the board. Pull the blade through the water in a large arching sweep from front to back. The larger the half-circle motion is performed through the water the greater the effect you will see on the paddleboard.

3. Remove the paddle from the water when the blade has reached towards the back of the paddleboard and return to the start of the stroke.

To perform the backwards sweep stroke, apply the same technique but in reverse. The backwards sweep stroke it performed on the same side that you want the direction of turn to be in. i.e if you want the board to turn to the left you can make a backwards sweep stroke to bring the nose of the board to the left.

The Draw Stroke.

Draw strokes move the board sideways through the water, this stroke is particularly helpful when trying to saddle up parallel to something such as a dock or another paddleboard.

To execute the draw stroke, rotate your shoulders and chest to the side of the paddleboard you will be performing the stroke on. Extend your arms out and bury the paddle blade in the water so the blade face is parallel to the rail of the board. Pull the paddle towards you in order to move the board in the direction of the paddle. Lift the blade from the water and return to the starting position.

Common PADDLEBOARDING Mistakes to Avoid:

Looking down

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is looking down at their feet or the nose of the board when trying to paddle. Although this seems pretty harmless, the effect of looking down at the board can have a massive impact on your ability to balance. Pick a point on the horizon or an object in the distance to focus on instead.

Holding the paddle incorrectly

Make sure you are holding the paddle the correct way around with the face of the blade pointing towards you. This will make the stroke more efficient, comfortable and it will be easier to paddle. Make sure that your hands are shoulder width apart on the shaft and T-grip and keep your elbows soft.

Standing too far back or forwards

Standing too far back on the board causes the front of the SUP to rise out the water and standing too far forwards causes the nose to sink in the water. Both have a negative effect on the handling of the board and will make it a lot harder to steer and control. On most modern paddleboards there is usually a center carry handle, use this as a reference to place your feet either side so you keep a central balance.

Not engaging your core

Paddleboarding is a full body workout and the core is what keeps the legs, hips and arms all connected. By engaging your core you will have more power through your strokes and you will be able to paddle for longer periods of time.

Adjusting for conditions

To paddle efficiently and safely it's important to adjust your technique while paddling against the wind or current, paddle harder, and maintain control. Conversely, if you're paddling with the wind or current, it's key to adjust your course to maintain your direction.

The different types of paddle boarding

As your career in paddle boarding progresses, you may want to try different variations of paddleboarding. Below are some of the most popular styles of paddleboarding.

Flatwater paddle boarding

This is the most common type of paddle boarding and likely what you’ll first try when getting into the sport. It is ideal for beginners as it offers a safe environment to hone in skills and progress to a point where you feel comfortable to try a more specialized type of paddle boarding. Flatwater involves paddling on calm waters such as lakes, bays, rivers or ponds. It's a great way to explore your surroundings and watch wildlife from a different perspective.

SUP Surfing

Surfing on a SUP generally requires a paddleboard that is designed to catch waves, these tend to be made from a solid construction, have more bow rocker and upwards of 2 fins on the rear of the board. SUP surfing requires a lot of skill, knowledge of the ocean and a good understanding of surf etiquette. Once mastered though, SUP surfing can be a uniquely fulfilling adrenaline sport.

SUP Touring

Touring is a great way to explore untouched areas that are only accessible by water. Touring boards are designed with more volume to accommodate extra gear that you’ll need when paddling long distances and camping along the way. They also have displacement hulls that are designed to cut through the water super efficiently and it helps the board to track in a straight line. Touring requires a good fitness level and strong stamina.

SUP Yoga

SUP yoga is yoga performed on a paddleboard floating on the water, such as a lake or the ocean. It takes the physical and mental benefits of yoga and combines it with the excitement of being on the water. The paddleboard provides an unstable surface, which makes the yoga poses more challenging and engaging, and requires a greater level of focus and balance. SUP yoga is a great way to enhance your yoga practice by feeling more connected with nature and removed from the daily grind. There are SUP yoga specific paddleboards on the market but it can also be performed on wider, all-around paddle boards.

Whitewater Paddle Boarding

Possibly the most challenging form of SUP is whitewater paddle boarding. It involves navigating down fast moving rivers with technical river features such as rocks, waves and stoppers. It requires a high level of skill, experience and fitness. The paddleboards used for whitewater are typically shorter than regular paddleboards, easier to maneuver, with bigger rocker and constructed from PVC or Ricochet. It is advised to get coaching before heading out onto whitewater for the first time.

SUP Fishing

Fishing from a paddleboard can be advantageous as it allows you to navigate shallow waters and approach fish without spooking them. SUP fishing requires a SUP that is designed to fish from, these boards will have a large volume for accommodating fishing equipment, are generally more stable and have attachment points so you can modify the board to hold fishing rods and reels. Many also have staking holes so your not blown around while casting out. It’s a great wat to access fishing spots that can’t be found from the shore or boat.

Have you ever heard of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? It's a super fun activity that provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, whether it be a serene lake, a meandering river, or the expansive ocean. The world is catching on to this activity's popularity, and it's easy to see why - SUP is an excellent full-body workout that engages muscles you might not have known existed while offering an enjoyable, social way to stay active.

These boards are all great options for those looking to buy their first paddleboard, they are stable, durable, and designed for beginners with the capacity for progression. They are also made with high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.

It's a good idea to rent or borrow a paddleboard before making a purchase, this will allow you to try a variety of boards and find one that is comfortable and works for you. By choosing the right paddle board and equipment, you'll have a more enjoyable experience on your journey of learning to paddleboard.

PADDLE

A SUP paddle is the next piece of equipment on the list. You’ll want to choose a paddle that is the right length, has a comfortable grip and is lightweight. Here are the things to consider when buying a paddle:

Type: There are adjustable paddles and fixed paddles, adjustable paddles allow you to adjust the length of the paddle shaft, while fixed paddles cannot be adjusted in length. The adjustable type of paddle is a great option for those starting out that haven't quite perfected their length-to-paddle-comfort ratio yet, they also make a great option for families and couples who will be sharing equipment. Fixed-length SUP paddles tend to be lighter as they do not have the adjustment part, and are usually made from more expensive materials and require cutting the paddle down to the correct size before setting it permanently.

Length: Getting the length of your SUP paddle right is important as a correctly sized paddle will be more comfortable and efficient to paddle with, helping to maximize your time on the water.

To determine your ideal paddle length, throw a shaka over your head and where your little finger ends is where the paddle handle should come to.

SUP LEASH

A SUP leash is a super important piece of equipment and every paddleboarder should own one. They tether you to your board, so you stay connected in any unexpected conditions and keep the board from drifting away should you fall off. There are different styles of SUP leashes, some attach at the ankle or just below the knee and are great for flat water paddling and surfing. However, for moving water you will use a quick release leash that attaches to your PFD or waist belt so you can detach yourself should the leash become entangled in downed trees or rocks.

How to install a SUP leash.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD)

A PFD is required by law in most countries. It's important to understand the laws in effect in your area before taking to the water. In the U.S the Coast Guard requires you to have a PFD on board, whether you choose to wear it or not is your choice, but children under 12 must wear one.

There are a couple of different styles of PFD that work well for paddleboarding, standard life vests and inflatable waist belts, both are great options:

Standard PFD’s: Standard PFDs look like vests made with foam that have adjustable straps on the shoulders and sides. These types of PFD are very versatile and are used across a number of different watersports, including canoeing, kayaking and fishing. They remain buoyant at all times and a lot of standard PFDs even have pockets for storing additional items like sunscreen, snacks etc.

Inflatable Waist Belts: This type of PFD is folded away neatly into a waist pack and inflates using a CO2 cartridge. There are manual and automatic inflation belts, with the manual type, you will manually deploy the inflation, the automatic works when submerged in water. The main advantage of these types of PFD is that they don’t restrict your range of movement and wont keep you warm on a hot day, however they do require some maintenance to ensure proper operation.

When buying a PFD choose one that fits properly and is designed to float your weight.

Why you should wear a PFD while paddleboarding.

CLOTHING

If it's hot and sunny it's important to wear clothing that will protect you from the sun and material that performs well in the water, a rash guard and swim shorts are a perfect combo. If you choose just to wear a swimsuit, be sure to team it with a high factor sunscreen that is waterproof and re-apply it often. A sun cap and sunglasses attached to a retainer will help protect you from the glare off the water too.

If the temperatures are more mild you can opt for a wetsuit, drysuit or thicker layers with neoprene booties. Try to avoid materials like cotton that have minimal insulating properties.

What to wear paddleboarding.

What to wear for winter paddleboarding.

PADDLING TECHNIQUE

Now that you have acquired the right equipment, let's look at the basics of paddle boarding technique. We do recommend you seek the guidance of a seasoned instructor during your initial attempts at paddle boarding, as they have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can prove invaluable in correcting and refining your technique. Head to our SUP Schools & Instructors page to find an instructor near you.

Standing on the board.

Always launch your paddleboard in calm, flat waters. Carry your paddleboard into knee deep water using the central carry handle, be sure that the fin is clear of any underwater obstacles or rocks. Once in the water, carefully place your paddle horizontally on the board, between the middle and the nose, climb onto the board assuming a kneeling position with both hands placed over the top of the shaft in a shoulder width position.

Beginners may choose to paddle the board in a kneeling position initially, while they gain stability and confidence. If you feel ready to try standing on the board, paddle in the kneeling position a few strokes away from the shore into deeper water before attempting to stand. This way in the event that you fall off the board, you’ll have deep water to land in. Slowly begin to stand up by placing the paddle back to the horizontal position across the board and placing both hands, shoulder width apart over the shaft. From here, lift your chest and bring one foot forwards, shoulder width apart around the center of the board. Stabilize yourself and then bring the other foot to match. Take hold of your paddle and begin to rise, engaging your core and straightening your back. Continue until you are standing but keep a slight bend in the knees, this is important so you can absorb small waves and movements without falling off.

Pro Tip: It helps to look ahead rather than at your feet when standing up!

Balance.

Maintaining balance while paddling is key to staying on the board, here are some pointers to help you stay on top of the water.

• Carefully position your feet so that they are parallel, hip-width apart and over the center of the board. Make sure they are spaced evenly over the deck so as to distribute your weight equally.

• Keep your toes pointing forward, your knees slightly bent and your back straight. Keeping the knees soft will allow you to absorb small waves and impacts.

• Try to maintain a gaze that is in the distance, looking ahead rather than down at your feet. This will help massively with your balance. Try to look ahead where you want to go.

• When paddling your feet should remain in the same position, try to move at the hips through each paddle stroke.

How to keep your paddleboard tracking straight.

Forward paddling technique.

The forward paddle stroke is the basic stroke that will move your board forwards through the water.

1. Your hands should be shoulder width apart down the paddle shaft. If you will be paddling on the right side your right hand will be lower on the shaft with your left hand on the T-grip at the top of the shaft. If you plan to paddle on the left, the opposite will be true.

2. Start the stroke by reaching as far forwards with your bottom hand, lifting the top hand back towards you to keep the shaft vertically aligned. As you extend forwards, twist your core to allow maximum reach. Keep your head raised with your focus on a static object in the distance and the knees soft with a slight bend.

3. Next, plant the stroke by driving the whole blade of the paddle into the water, keeping your back straight, core engaged and still focusing in the distance. Your hands should be stacked vertically on top of each other.

4. Now pull the paddle through the water, twisting your core and driving through the stroke with your top hand. Once the paddle blade is in line with your hips,exit the stroke and return to the starting position.

Pro Tip: Keeping the stroke close to the rail of the board will help prevent the board from turning and keep you tracking straight.

It's good to practice paddling on both sides, as when you start to paddle for longer distances you’ll want to change sides periodically to reduce fatigue or match the conditions.

How to keep your paddleboard tracking straight.