Stand Up Paddle Board Technique

Since an ocean or big, crashing waves are not requirements to enjoy stand up paddle surfing, the sport has taken to inland lakes, rivers and harbors. It is an outdoor activity for enthusiasts of any age, but beginners often find themselves frustrated--and exhausted--over trying to paddle in a straight line. Below are some techniques that will give you greater control over your board and keep you cruising straight as an arrow.

  1. Origins

    • Stand up paddle surfing, also known as SUP, has its early roots in Polynesian culture. It became popular in 1960s American surf culture on the islands of Hawaii, when local surfers would stand up on their longboards and paddle out to take pictures of people learning to surf. The sport has since gained a large following nationwide due to its accessibility and visibility. You can ride a stand up paddle board on any large body of water, from open oceans to lakes, rivers and harbors. Also, paddling in an upright, standing position provides excellent visibility over the water.

    Board Adjustments

    • A common beginner complaint in stand up paddle boarding is drifting. But, making minor adjustments to your board will greatly improve this problem. First, a larger fin creates maximum stability. Because it sits deeper in the water, it creates just enough drag to maintain direction and keep the board from tracking side to side. According to "Stand Up Paddle Surfing Magazine," seeker fins by Rainbow Fin Co. are a good choice, as they are designed for stand up paddling.

      It is also a good idea to choose a board that suits your SUP needs. A flat water board or open racing board is designed to ride fast by cutting straight through the water. However, they are not designed to ride waves.

    Paddling Technique

    • Once you have made slight adjustments to your paddle board, the next step is to focus on your paddle stroke. It is a natural instinct to paddle alongside the curve of your board. Unfortunately, this motion will immediately send you in the opposite direction. To avoid this reaction, place your paddle in the water at the nose of the board and stroke it straight back in a smooth, even motion, pushing you into a forward motion.

      As you paddle, another good technique is to lean slightly to the side on which you are paddling by applying a bit of pressure to the foot closest to the paddle. This dips the rail, or side, of your board slightly into the water and helps beginners to maintain a more direct course. The best advice, though, is to practice. Focus on these tips and the proper technique and your stroke will become a mindless muscle memory. It simply takes time and practice to develop your technique and train your body into the proper form. After enough practice, it will suddenly dawn on you that you haven't banged the side of your board with your paddle in a long time.